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Rev. Henry Williams, D, D„ 

Late Pastor of the Gilfield Baptist Church, 



A SKETCH 



OF THE LIFE OF 



Rev. Henry Williams, D.D., 



LATE PASTOR OF THE 



G/LF/ELD BAPTIST CHURCH, 

PETEESBUEG, VIRGINIA, 

WITH 

vfjer>err)0r)ies lrjciGlerjf f© lis J@)e0:fr) ; 



AND TO THE 



EEECTIOH OF A MONUMENT TO HIS MEMOBY, 



V 

By WILLIAM H. JOHNSON, 

Superintendent of the Gilfield Baptist Sabbath School, 
Per order of the Gilfield Baptist Church. 



ISOl, 

COPYRIGHTED BY WM. H. JOHNSON 



PETERSBURG, VA. 

Fenn t Owen, Printers and Binders, 122 Sycamore Street. 

1901. 






THE LIBRARY OF 

CONGRESS, 
Two Copies Received 

JUL. 22 1901 

Copyright entry 
^LASS <*s xxe. N-. 
j COPY B.' j 






« » « • • , ■ 




This Book 

is Dedicated to the Memory of 

REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D., 

late Pastor of the Gilfield Baptist Church, 
of Petersburg, Virginia. 
Born October 13th, 1881. 

Died February 18th, 1900. 



A SKETCH. 



CHAPTER I. 




|ev. Henry Williams was bora in Spottsylvania County, 
Virginia, October 13th, 1831. When quite young he 
was carried to the State of Ohio, where he spent his 
youth. While a youth, he was possessed of a desire 
to visit Africa. Perfecting his plans, without the 
knowledge of his parents, he sailed for the continent of Africa. 
His voyage, as he often stated, was fraught with misgivings, with 
perils and hardships. His stay in Africa was brief. He became 
homesick a short time after his arrival, and determined to make 
use of the first opportunity which presented itself to return 
home. In endeavoring to board the ship, he narrowly escaped 
drowning or being devoured by sharks. He stated: "I was taken 
to the ship in a row boat manned by some of the natives. On 
reaching the ship, my manner of getting aboard was to be by 
climbing a rope which was suspended from the ship's deck, and 
reaching to the row boat. Just as soon as I had cleared the boat, 
the rowers pulled from under me, and there I was, dangling be- 
tween the sky and the sea, with hungry sharks awaiting my fall. 
I finally succeeded in getting aboard, considerably frightened." 
He reached America after a very storiny voyage, and shortly 
after reaching home he professed the religion of the Lord Jesus 
Christ, and began the study of the ministry. 

He attended the schools at his home only, never having attend- 
ed any college, and was in reality a self-made man. He taught 
school at one time with remarkable success. During his minis- 
try as a missionary, he traveled extensively on foot, some days 
making as long a journey as forty miles. 

He was a very fearless and active member of the Under Ground 
Eailroad Company, which had for ils object the assisting of mem- 



6 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

bers of the colored race in obtaining their freedom. He person- 
ally led, and transported on his back and shoulders many of his 
race, from one station to another on the way to Canada, traveling 
day and night, through rain and snow. 

At the close of the Civil War, in 1865, while on a missionary 
tour, his route lay through the City of Petersburg. Through 
the Providence of God he was met by one of the officials of the 
Gilfield Baptist Church, and was persuaded to preach a sermon 
to the church, she, at that time, waiting for a pastor to whom a 
call had been extended, and whose arrival was long overdue. 
He reluctantly consented to preach. At the close of the sermon 
he was extended a call from the church, which, after reflection, 
he accepted, nothing having been heard from the person previ- 
ously called. 

He entered upon his duties as pastor of the Gilfield Baptist 
Church in November, 1865. He also took charge of the Gilfield 
Baptist Sabbath School, which was reorganized April 21st of the 
same year. 

In coming into our midst, he added a jewel to the society of 
women in the person of his amiable, Christian wife, Mrs. Made- 
line Williams, nee Carter, to whom he was married in June, 1843. 

He was tall and of large stature, though well proportioned, 
and not at all awkward. His massive chest and neck gave evi- 
dence of grand vocal ability and lung power. While a young 
man, like many others, possessors of fine physique, he tested his 
strength one day in lifting an exceedingly heavy bar of iron, in 
consequence of which he injured a bone in his back, hence a 
slight stooping posture at the shoulders. 

In 1870 he was elected a member of the Council of the City of 
Petersburg, and served with that manly courage and devotion 
to his duties which characterized all his doings. He was also a 
member of the Board, which had for its object the distribution 
of wood to the poor, and no one under his immediate care was 
ever heard to complain of any negligence on his part in allevia- 
ting their wants. 

In the 70 's he began the agitation of colored teachers for the 
colored schools of Petersburg, the results of which are seen to-day. 

Eev. Williams was of a dignified, seemingly austere manner, 
but in the company of his friends he was the equal of any in 
wit, humor, and repartee. 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 7 

He was not a Minister of the Gospel for the sake of loaves and 
fishes, as he had more than one call from churches of varies cities, 
offering him salaries exceeding what he was getting, but money- 
did not tempt him. At a time when retrenchment held sway in 
this city and in others, he voluntarily requested and insisted 
that the church deduct $200 per year from his salary; in other 
words, he insisted that he be paid $200 less than formerly. 

About three years before his death, a number of the members 
of his church, and friends from other churches, headed by Mrs. 
Nellie Coleman, seeing that his work, at his age, demanded that 
he have a horse and buggy for his rounds, donated to him a su- 
perb horse and a splendid vehicle, which he used regularly un- 
til he was taken sick. 

Eev. Williams' first sermon to the church was from the 23rd 
verse of the 6th chapter of Paul's letter to the Romans. On 
Sabbath day, 4th of February, 1900, he preached his last sermon 
to the church, from the 111th Psalm. After preaching a very 
feeling sermon which was much commented upon, he remarked 
that he was subject to heart trouble and might go off at any 
time. On Thursday, February 8th, he was confined to his bed, 
and on Sabbath day, the 18th of February, 1900, he fell asleep 
at 5 P. M. 

He was perfectly conscious to the end, and of his end, as he 
informed his family and friends on what day he would die, and 
instructed them as to the day on which he wished to be buried, 
submitting the manner in which he wished his funeral services 
conducted. 

Tuesday morning, February 20th, 1900, the day was ushered 
in with a promise of plenty of cold weather. The air was seem- 
ingly wrapped in a sheet of ice, while the earth was reeking with 
winter's snow and rain. Nevertheless, long before eleven o'clock 
the streets were thronged with pedestrians wending their way to 
the church edifice on Perry Street. A few minutes after eleven 
o'clock, the hour appointed for the funeral obsequies, the pro- 
cession arrived at the church edifice, and the casket containing 
the body was carried in and laid before the altar. A vast throng 
had gathered beneath the roof of the building, and there, with- 
in those consecrated walls, amidst a deep and solemn silence, a 
silence penetrating in the extreme, broken at intervals only by 
the convulsive sobs of a grief stricken church and sympathetic 



8 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

friends, the funeral services were conducted. The services were 
of the simplest, yet most impressive nature. Rev. Henry Mad- 
ison, of San Marino, Va., was director of ceremonies. After 
ter the singing of the opening hymn, Eev. Walter Brooks, D. D., 
of Washington, D. C, read the 15th chapter of 1st Corinthians, 
after which Rev.-E. H. Bowling, of Norfolk, Va., led the audi- 
ence before God's throne in a most pathetic, beautiful, and hum- 
ble petition. Dr. A. Binga read the obituary notice from the 
family, and was followed by Rev. D. N. Vassar, of Richmond, 
Va., who presented the sympathies of the Ministers' Conference 
of Richmond, Va. 

At the conclusion of the ceremonies, the casket, which had been 
covered with and surrounded by about $125 worth of flowers — 
wreathed in the most exquisite and touching designs, was open- 
ed, and two thousand or more persons viewed the remains and 
passed out amid the same quietness and deferential solemnity 
which had characterized the entire ceremonies. The ceremonies 
having been concluded, all that remained of Dr. Williams was 
conveyed to its resting place in Blandford Cemetery, in a hearse 
drawn by four white horses. 



CHAPTER II. 

Dev. Henry Williams was no ordinary man. His life was 
* ^ one of extraordinary usefulness and sacrifice, and the press, 
at his death, was not slow in paying its respects to him, and in 
none of them is there the slightest sign of levity, nor is there 
any lack of that dignity which becomes a man of so much Chris- 
tian fortitude. The following are some of the numerous com- 
ments upon his life: 

Petersburg Progress, February 19th, 1900. 

DEATH OF EEV. HENRY WILLIAMS. 

Rev. Henry Williams, pastor of Gilfield Baptist Church, died 
at his residence on Pegram Street yesterday afternoon, after an 
illness of two weeks. Deceased, who was 68 years of age, was 
one of the most prominent colored ministers in the State. He 
came to Petersburg from Ohio about 35 years ago and accepted 
the pastorate of Gilfield Baptist Church, and continued as pastor 
of that congregation until his death. Under his leadership the 
church grew from a meagre membership until now it numbers 
more than 2000 souls and owns one of the largest church build- 
ings in the city. His influence among his race was great, and 
he accomplished much good. Unlike many colored ministers, 
he took little interest in politics, but devoted his time to the task 
of bettering the moral and material condition of his flock; and 
while it may be said that "Elder" Williams ruled with an "iron 
hand," the good results justified him in doing so. He leaves a 
widow, but no children. 

The funeral will take place from Gilfield Church to-morrow 
morning at 11 o'clock. 

Petersburg Progress, February 20th, 1900. 

FUNERAL OF REV. HENRY WILLIAMS. 

The funeral of Rev. Henry Williams took place to-day from 
Gilfield Baptist Church, of which he was pastor for 34 years. 



10 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

The large church was packed with a deuse crowd and numbers 
were unable to gain entrance. There was uo sermon, only the 
funeral services, consisting of the reading of selections from the 
Scriptures, singing, prayers, &c, which were participated in by 
a number of ministers. In addition to the local colored clergy, 
there were present Bev. Brooks of Washington, Bowling of Nor- 
folk, Perry and Binga of Manchester, Madison and Kizer of 
Dinwiddie. 

The procession, one of the longest ever seen in the city, was 
followed to Blandford by a large crowd. The hearse was drawn 
by four white horses and the grave was literally covered with 
flowers. 

Richmond Leader, February 19th, 1900. 

Bev. Henry Williams, colored, pastor of Giliield Baptist 
Church, died yesterday afternoon, at the age of 68 years. 

Bev. Williams came to Petersburg from Cincinnati 35 years 
ago, and has been pastor of Oilfield Church since that time. He 
was highly respected by all white people on account of his cour- 
teous manner at all times. He was a true Christian man and pop- 
ular preacher and pastor. About twelve months ago he preached 
a sermon on the death of Andrew Jackson, who was Sexton of 
St. Paul's, and it made a deep impression on the people who were 
present from St. Paul's Church. 

Gilfield Church, of which he was pastor, has a membership 
of 2,600. 

Petersburg Index-Appeal, February 20th, 1900. 

TEIBUTE TO BEV. HENBY WILLIAMS. 

Bev. Henry Williams, whose funeral services will be conduct- 
ed to-day at the Gilfield Baptist Church, became pastor of said 
church about 34 years ago. From that time to the day of his 
death he has been the trusted and honored shepherd of his flock. 
As a man, a Christian and a minister of the gospel, he ranked 
among the first. He was always ready tojgive aid to the allevia- 
tion of the suffering and oppressed. No one in want ever went 
empty handed from his door. As a Christian, he was well for- 
tified to withstand the arts and cunning craftiness of sin and 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. II 

wickedness. As a pastor, he was all that the word implies. An 
unfaltering defender of the truth, a solid impregnable wall of ada- 
mant against the propagation of erroneous doctrines; a staunch 
upholder of the cause of justice and righteousness, indoctrinat- 
ing his people into that which made for peace and good will 
among men and reconciliation with God. His unflinching devo- 
tion to the principles of Christianity, his patriotism to the cause 
of good and upright citizenship, his unbounded love for all that 
is pure, noble and virtuous in manhood and womanhood, and his 
outspoken, fearless denunciation of crime, small and great, gained 
for him the respect and admiration of the best element of the 
community. He had enemies, but in the language of Holy Writ 
they were enemies because he told them the truth. The constel- 
lation has lost a star, the rays of whose effulgent brightness will 
be reflected as long as time shall last. Hundreds of good, hon- 
est, pious Christians, whose light will illumine the hearts of gen- 
erations to come, are a lasting monument to his career. 

One Who has Learned from Him. 

Petersburg Index- Appeal, February 20th, 1900. 

DEATH OF EEV. HENRY WILLIAMS. 

Rev. Henry Williams, pastor of the Gilfield Baptist Church, 
died at his home on Pegram street, Sunday evening, after a pro- 
tracted illness. The deceased was born in Spotts\ lvania county, 
near Fredericksburg, on October 13, 1831. He was carried, 
when quite young, by his parents, to Hamilton county, Ohio. 
He came to Petersburg from Ohio, November, 1865, and was elec- 
ted pastor of the Gilfield Church on the 20th of that month, and 
at once entered upon his pastoral work. When he took charge 
of the church there were between 1,200 and 1,300 members. 
During his ministry 2,571 members were received into the church 
by baptism and by letter. 

The deceased was the prime leader of the Colored Baptist 
State Convention of Virginia, and it was he who established the 
Bethany Association of Southside Virginia. 

When deceased came to Petersburg, all that part of the city 
now known as Williamsburg was a portion of the Alms House 
tract. The city of Petersburg sold that part of it to a syndicate 



I 2 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

which afterwards presented Eev. Williams with a site for a resi- 
dence, and it was owing to his influence and energy that that 
part of the city grew up so rapidly, and was afterwards named 
Williamsburg, after Eev. Heury Williams. 

The deceased was one of the best known colored ministers in 
the State, and exerted a great influence over his race. He took 
but little interest in politics, but devoted himself chiefly to his 
calling and looking after his church work. He was much loved, 
not only by his own race, but by the white people of the com- 
munity. The announcement of his death will be read with sin- 
cere regret. 

Petersburg Index-Appeal, February 21st, 1900. 

FUNERAL OF EEV. HENEY WILLIAMS. 

The funeral of the late Eev. Henry Williams, pastor of the 
Gilfield Baptist Church, took place from that church yesterday 
morning and was very largely attended. Besides the local col- 
ored clergy, Eev. Brooks of Washington, Bowling of Norfolk, 
Perry and Binga of Manchester, and Kiser of Dinwiddie county, 
took part in the services, which consisted in reading selections 
from the Scriptures, singing and prayers. The procession was 
one of the largest ever seen in Petersburg. 

Petersburg Index- Appeal, February 19, 1900. 

EESOLUTIONS OF EESPECT. 

Petersburg, Va., February 19, 1900 

At a joint meeting of the Oak Street A. M. E. Zion church 
and Union Street A. M. E. church the following resolutions were 
adopted: 

Whereas, we have learned with unfeigned sorrow and regret 
of the death of our esteemed Christian friend and co- worker in 
Christ, Eev. Dr. Henry Williams, who has already proven him- 
self not only a devout Christian but a strong advocate for all 
that tends to the uplifting of our race, and as we remember the 
substantial assistance that he rendered us in our great struggle 
in building our church, therefore be it 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. I 3 

Resolved, 1st, That we bow in humble submission to Him who 
doeth all things well. 

2d. He was active aud zealous in his work and always ready 
to succor the needy and distressed, prompt to advance the inter- 
ests of Christ's cause, devoted to its interests and welfare, wise 
in counsel and fearless in action, a man honest and upright, 
whose virtues endeared him not only to the brethren of his own 
faith but to all of his fellow citizens. 

3d. That we extend to the family and the church of the de- 
ceased our heartfelt sympathy in this their hour of bereavement. 

4th. That though we feel that the ministry of our State has 
lost one of its brightest jewels, his church an able pastor, our 
community a most valued citizen and our race a most able advo- 
cate, yet we feel safe in repeating these lines of the poet: 

Servant of God well done; 

Rest from thy loved employ, 
The battle fought, the \ ictory won, 

Enter thy Master's joy. 

5th. That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family of 

the deceased brother, a copy to his late church, and a copy be 

spread on the records of our churches and a copy be published 

in the Index- Appeal. 

James Allen, 

John W. Manson, 

R. F. Heartwell, 

E. L. Stokes, 

Mack Robinson, 

J. E. Dixon, 

P. R. Anderson, 

J. H. Brooks, Clerk, 

Committee. 

Christian Organizer, February 1900. 

A NOBLE LIFE ENDED. 

The sad, sad news of the death of Rev. Henry Williams, D. 
D., telegraphed to us by Mrs. M. Williams last Sunday night, 
takes from the stage of active pastoral work one of the best men 
as well as one of the strongest Baptist preachers the State of Vir- 
ginia has ever known. The elements of power as we have seen 



14 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

them in Dr. Henry Williams may be summed up in the one 
word, character. He was a man of spotless character, untarnished, 
unblemished. He stood out among the men with whom he la- 
bored as one of the peaks of the mighty Alpines. Men loved 
him, yet they feared him. They loved him because they believed 
in him, in his purposes, in his ability, in his determination to 
construct and to exemplify means and measures that make for 
the betterment of his people, and because he would accomplish 
the right, regardless of whom it might find unprepared. He 
devoted his life to the cause of Christian development, never 
wavering, never doubting, never turning to right or left. He 
was the disciple indeed. We have sometimes wondered how 
in the great march of truth he was not caught off his guard, but 
true to the instincts of his truly high inheritance, he was found 
at all times and under all circumstances, exemplifying in his 
life, words and works, the spirit of Him who brought him forth 
from darkness to light, from the power of Satan unto God. He 
was strong. His strength was many sided. It could be seen in 
his home life. Dr. Henry Williams and Pastor Dixon, of New 
York, had strong resemblances in this respect. The beautiful 
order in their homes; the sight of Sister Williams inspires in 
you love for her, so motherly, so tender and so thoughtful for 
the comfort of her visitors. So in the home of the great Brook- 
lyn divine everything seems to have a place, and to move it 
would be to disarrange; no other place seems to fit as that place. 
In a word there's a charm in their home life which can be known 
only to those who may have been privileged to enjoy it. But 
he was strong in other respects, in his influence upon those 
about him. We have been often reminded of him when reading 
that scripture where the shadow of Peter falling upon the lame, 
the maimed and those otherwise afflicted, served as a cure. 
Men became better as they approached him and as they allowed 
him to enter their inner lives, he was a real revealer of men to 
themselves. He was strong in the knowledge of his church and 
its government. No man in this State could justly gainsay Dr. 
Henry Williams when he gave his decision upon any matter 
touching the polity of the denomination, for he was a student of 
those things appertaining to its history and was always ready to 
give a reasonable reason for the faith that was in him. 

He was strong in his love for the race and for the permanen- 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D., I 5 

cies that serve to build it up. He believed profoundly in racial 
iuterests and institutions, no cringer, no dodger, but he was the 
real man, declaring his approval of those things that were right 
and condemning those things that were wrong. He was strong 
as a preacher, and as a pastor. Dr. Williams did not affect as a 
preacher, but he believed in something, and from the depth of 
that belief, he preached. He was a born commentarian, and if 
his Bibical gleanings are not preserved to the church, we have 
indeed lost much of real merit, much of real substantial value to 
the cause of truth, and much of historical value to the denomi- 
nation. As a boy, I listened to him. As a boy, I listened to 
the Rev. Dixon, of New York, and to them both it is due, that 
it be said, they impressed me more as to the reality of the 
Christian religion than any other men with whom I am ac- 
quainted. Dr. Williams' church was more like a church as I 
had conceived of a church than any other organization I ever 
knew. This same was and is true to day of Pastor Dixon's church 
in Brooklyn, N. Y. There is in these two churches, that order, 
that atmosphere of reverence which pervades everything and 
which impresses, overshadows you the moment you enter. There 
is too, that devotional spirit which seems to lift you into a higher 
and holier atmosphere. "Like priest, like people" can be ap- 
plied to the members of the Gilfield Church. How long the 
past century waited for Dr. Henry Williams, I cannot say, but 
this I do know, and I glean this, a reluctant testimony from 
those upon the field. It will be a long time ere we see his like 
again. He did not grow old. There are men in the pulpit who 
are too old to preach and too mean to give away to those who 
may preach. Their lives are a living lie to the calling. They 
are "bundles of hypocrisy." They tell a different tale to as many 
different men upon the same subject. Not so much with this 
brave Godly man. He is missed; those who love him, miss him, 
and those who may have differed from him, miss him also. Truly 
as we look over the list of the men of his class, we are forced to 
say, he is the noblest "Roman of them all." We think we see 
him standing on a mountain top midst thundering and lightning 
bearing the blessed word of God in his hands, his brow encircled 
in a halo of glory, while he disappears amidst the cloud of an- 
gelic hosts which rises and enwraps him. 



I 6 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

"What is life, but a shell, 
Cast on eternity's shore; 
On times' bank of quick-sand to dwell, 
A moment its loveliness to know." 

G. W. Hayes. 

Richmond Planet, February 2J/., 1900. 
THE DEATH OF DE. WILLIAMS. 

The death of Eev. Henry Williams, D. D., at Petersburg, Va., 
Sunday afternoon, the 18th instant, removes from the scene of 
action one of the ablest Baptist leaders in the State. 

His worth to the denomination cannot now be estimated. He 
was as the rugged Alps towering above its fellows, powerful and 
commanding, brilliant in its magnificence and sublime in its 
grandeur. 

Few men could sway the multitude as could he, and fewer still 
could enforce the rules of discipline with that unerring system 
and mathematical nicety as was manifest in all of his transac- 
tions. 

As a devotee of the race with which he was identified, there 
were none to surpass him. 

Experience had given him strength, age, and wisdom. To 
count Eev. Dr. Williams as a friend was a privilege much to be 
valued. His word was a bond, and his promise a security. 

He scrupulously paid his debts, and honored his obligations. 

As a man, he was nature's gentleman; as a Christian, a prince 
of the Most High. 

He could be as stern as a warrior, or as gentle as a child. To 
us he was a friend. During a period of years, extending nearly 
over a decade, there was never a break in his love for us which 
may be well termed affection. 

When his head bowed to the stroke, and death claimed him as 
a victim, one of our pillars was torn from its foundation, and 
one of our main supporters cast aside. 

What would we not have done for Dr. Williams! At no time 
was there a question of our fidelity to him, or his faithfulness 
to us. 

But the evening sun went down on Sunday evening last to rise 
no more for him in this world, and with its setting the canker of 
despair begun its work in the heart of one who loved him. 




■""*«.***... 



.. " ,i m 



Monument to the Memory of 
Doctor Williams. 
15 feet 7 inches high, 6 feet square at base. 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. I 7 

And yet, even this gloomy view is enlightened by the pro- 
mises of the Saviour, who seems in a still small voice to whisper, 
"You shall see your brother again." 

So be it! The seraphic strains of heavenly music are hum- 
ming a welcome not a requiem for him, and his winding sheet is 
but the cloak of the Master to guide him safely to the the other 
shore. 

We yet remain behind and hope that in the coming years if 
not now, another may rise to take his place — to carry on the 
good work so happily begun by him, taking it up at the spot 
where he so suddenly left it off. Fittingly Shakespeare describes 
the fallen chieftain when he says: 

"His life was gentle, and the elements 
So mixed in him, that nature might stand up, 
And say to all the world, "This was a man." 

RESOLUTIONS BY THE GILFIELD BAPTIST 
SABBATH SCHOOL. 

Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, in His just and Di- 
vine Providence to send the messenger, Death, in our midst, and 
has taken from us our beloved and honored Superintendent Rev. 
Henry Williams, D. D., and 

Whereas, He, the Rev. Henry Williams, has labored so un- 
tiringly, so zealously, so unflinchly among us for 34 years, in 
endeavoring to train and indoctrinate us into those doctrines and 
principles which insure to one a life of usefulness and happiness 
on earth, and a never ending life of eternal bliss; and 

Whereas, He has for the same length of time, striven as much 
as was in the power of man to do, by precept and by example to 
create and cause to thrive in our city a healthy Christian senti- 
mentry, therefore, 

Resolved 1st, That we bow in humble submission to the All- 
Wise Searcher of hearts, who doeth all things well, committing 
ourselves to Him, believing that His promises shall stand forever. 

Resolved, 2nd, That in the death of Rev. Henry Williams, we 
lose a Shepherd, a Disciplinarian, a Protector whose place it will 
be a hard matter to fill. 

Resolved 3rd, That we deplore his death and that we, in our 
love for him, would have him back in perfect health and 
2 



1 8 SKBTCH OF THE LIFE OF 

strength, yet we will but rejoice in the knowledge that he is 
where the weary are at rest, and where the wicked will trouble 
him no more. 

Resolved 4th } That we will ever, to our dying day cherish the 
memory of the saintly, manly life he led, and by our strict de- 
votion to our God and our Sabbath School, exemplify his teach- 
ings to the extent that it may be seen and known of us that we 
had a teacher ordained by God Himself. 

Resolved 5th, That we will imitate his record of honest deal- 
ing, strict integrity, Christian fortitude, succor to the poor, de- 
fense of the down trodden, and fearless denunciation of all 
things wrong: and that we will determine, by the grace of God, 
to meet our beloved Superintendent on the banks of eternal de- 
liverance, where there'll be no more parting, but a continuous 
eternity of happiness and tranquility. 

Resolved 6th, That one copy of these resolutions be printed, 
framed, and be suspended from the walls of our Chapel, one be 
sent to the family, one be sent to the press, and that one be 
spread upon the minutes of the Sabbath School. 

COMMITTEE. 

Thomas M. Griffin, Sr., 
Miss Lucretia Campbell, 
Miss Bessie D. Avery, 
Mrs. Margaret Kenward, 
Eobt. J. Jones, 
Wm. H. Johnson, Chairman. 

National Pilot, February 22nd, 1900. 

EEV. DE. WILLIAMS. 

Pastor Gilfield Baptist Church Thirty-Four Years, Departed 
—Funeral Services Last Tuesday at 11 A. M., Con- 
sisting of Eulogies ey Fellow-Servants 
According to His Own Arrange- 
ments Made Previous to 
His Death. 

Eev. Henry Williams. D. D., pastor of the Gilfield Baptist 
church, of this city, departed this life at his residence on Pe- 
gram street on last Sunday afternoon at 5 o'clock. His illness 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. I 9 

was comparatively of brief duration, having been sick about 
five days. His wife and niece, who survive hiin and several 
more of his members and friends were present at his bed-side 
when he died. He was sensible of his death, and prophesied 
the day and hour of his burial. He selected his own order of 
burial services and stated that he desired to be buried with his 
brethren. 

His funeral took place on last Tuesday from Gilfield Baptist 
church, at 11 A. M., and was about on the following order: 

The opening hymn was read and lined by Rev. H. Madison, of 
Dinwiddie county. Scriptural lesson by Dr. W. H. Brooks, of 
Washington, D. C. Prayer by Rev. Dr. Bowling, of Norfolk. 
Rev. Dr. Binga, of Manchester, read testimonials from the 
family, and resolutions of respect from the church were read by 
Rev. Dr. Vassar, of Richmond. Rev. James Kiezer, of Dinwid- 
die county, led in singing the last hymn. Dr. Bowling read a 
series of resolutions from the Bute Street Baptist church. 

PASTOR OF WEST END BAPTIST CHURCH. 

Bro. Williams, the beloved pastor of the Gilfield church (col- 
ordd), died last week. He had served this church faithfully for 
a number of years, and his place will be difficult to fill. He 
was a good man and an able minister. W. S. Leake. 

Petersburg, Va., Feb. 26, 1900. 

Petersburg Letter to Religious Herald March 1st, 1900. 

We chronicle this week the sad fact of the passing from time 
into eternity of one of the grandest men of the Baptist Church 
in this country. His influence cannot be hedged in by State 
boundaries. He is known among the Baptists from one end of 
this country to the other. Not only known, but he is acknowl- 
edged. Dr. Williams has been the beloved pastor of Gilfield 
Baptist Church for many years; and his great influence for good 
in the City of Petersburg, where he has lived most of the time, is 
acknowledged by white and black alike. They all bow humbly 
today to Heaven's behest, as they mourn the loss of one whose 
life has been truly a benediction of mercy to many. He leaves 
a saintly widow, Mrs. M. Williams, with a loving and grateful 
church to mourn their loss. 



20 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

Virginia Baptist, February 2^th, 1900. 
A GEEAT LEADEE GONE TO HIS EEST. 

A number of our readers who have known Eev. Henry Wil- 
liams, D D., of Eetersburg, Va., will be surprised and pained 
to hear of his death; for, in the long list of ministers of our de- 
nomination in this State, none seemed more robust and strong, 
and seemed to bid fair to last longer than he. Yet, for a year 
or two past, those who were nearest to him, and many of his 
flock knew that he suffered frequent attacks which kept him in 
doors occasionally for a few days, and then at other times for a 
week or more. 

But none dreamed of the serious nature of his malady. 

When on the first Sunday in this month, after preaching a ser- 
mon of striking force and with singular effectiveness to a very 
large congregation, he made the announcement that he was "af- 
fected with heart disease and asthma, and was liable to die at 
any moment," and that were he to fall then it need not surprise 
any of those who saw and were hearing him. It was sad indeed 
to note the death -like pall that seemed to fall upon that great 
throng of worshipers. 

Despite the earnestness of their pastor, no one thought that it 
was the last he would preach to them; but such was the fact, 
and on going home from that service he was too sick to return to 
preach at the evening service; and he remained at home under 
the care of his physician until the third Sunday in the month, 
the 18th, when he breathed his life out, in the presence of his 
family and loving friends. 

Eev. Henry Williams, D. D., was a remarkable man; he had 
a personality that enabled him to impress those over whom he 
had control to such an extent that he was often charged with be 
ing a boss. He was conscious of his approaching end and ar- 
ranged the funeral services. 

According to his direction the hour of 11 o'clock of the third 
day after his death was selected, in order, as he stated, that the 
people might be able to get to their homes before night. 

There was no set funeral sermon or eulogy pronounced. 

At 10:45 the Sunday School of which the deceased was Super- 
intendent, filed in and took seats in the middle aisle of thechurch. 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 21 

As the body was borne in the sacred edifice the choir sang very 
softly, "Go to thy Rest." 

Eev. Henry Madison, of Dinwiddie County, an intimate friend 
of the deceased, who had stayed with him, constantly stated 
that the solemn services would be conducted as arranged by the 
deceased himself. He introduced Rev. Mr. Reiser, of Dinwiddie 
County, who lined the hymn, "Great God I own thy pardon 
just, etc." 

Rev. Walter H. Brooks, D. D., of Washington, D. C, then 
read the I Cor. XV Chapter from the 35th verse. 

Rev. R. H. Boiling, of Norfolk, then led in a fervent prayer. 

The hymn, "My God, the spring of all my joy" — the last 
hymn sung by deceased the day of his death, was then sung by 
the congregation . 

Rev. A. Binga, of Manchester, then read a paper prepared by 
the family, referring to the deceased. 

The Sunday School then sang "Fading away like the stars of 
the morning, etc." 

The following resolutions of condolence adopted by the church 
were then read by Rev. D. N. Vassar, of Virginia Union Uni- 
versity : 

Whereas, it has pleased Almighty God, our Heavenly Fa- 
ther in his Allwise Providence, to take from us our beloved pas- 
tor, Rev. Henry Williams, and whereas he has served the Gil- 
field Baptist church so faithfully and zealously for the past 34 
years and by his untiring zeal has caused our church to prosper 
in peace and Christian Union, having added to its membership 
more than 5,000 by baptism and otherwise, and 

Whereas, during all these years in our midst, he has borne 
himself with Christian dignity and by precept and example has 
won the love and respect of all lovers of Christianity; therefore 
be it 

Resolved 1st. We bow in obedience to the will of Him who has 
taken our beloved leader away, believing that he has only gone 
to reap a well earned reward for labors justly and well performed 
among mortals on this earth. 

Eesolved\2nd. That we shall ever cherish his memory, and while 
mere words are inadequate to express our great loss, yet in the 
hearts of his afflicted members is his work recorded. 

Besolved 3rd. That we shall strive to emulate his virtues, and 



2 2 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

demean ourselves as Christians, and show such great love for our 
church, thereby demonstrating that his influence shall never die. 
Resolved Ifii. That a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to 
the family of our beloved pastor and another to the press and 
also that they be spread upon the minutes of our church. 

Jas. M. Wilkerson. Chairman, 

BlCHAUD KENNARD, 

J. A. C. Stevens, 

Committee. 

The hymn, "On Jordan's Stormy Banks I Stand, etc," was 
sung. 

Bev. B. H. Bowling, of Bute Street Baptist church, and Bev. H. 
L. Barco, represented the Minister's Conference of Norfolk, Va. 

The Sabbath School then sang "Sleep on Beloved, sleep and 
take thy rest." 

Bev. Dr. D. N. Vassar, as the representative of the Virginia 
Union University, paid a tribute to the memory of the deceased. 

The people were then permitted to take a last look at the de- 
ceased, after which the choir sang, "Nearer my God to Thee." 

The sad cortege was then formed and wended its way to the 
cemetery, where all that was mortal of Bev. Henry Williams 
was laid to rest. 

He was truly a leader of his people; a great man in the com- 
munity, and in attestation of this fact, a concourse of several 
thousand of the best people of both races turned out to pay the 
last tribute of respect to his memory. 

We join the multitude of his friends in their universal plaudit, 
"Well done thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the 
joy of thy Lord;" and commend his family to the care of that 
God whom he served faithfully. 

Several hours before his death, Dr. Williams, perfectly 
cognizant of his approaching end, suggested and requested that 
the church, without any unnecessary delay, would elect a 
Superintendent for the Sabbath School. 

In accordance with his request, the church, in regular ses- 
sion, Monday evening, March 5th, elected Wm. H. Johnson as 
Superintendent of the Sabbath School. After the election, the 
church decided by a vote, to erect jointly with the Sabbath 
School, a monument to the memory of Dr. Williams, and the 
following named persons were appointed a Monumeut Commit- 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 23 

tee from the church to act with a like committee from the Sab- 
bath School, viz: From the church: Deacon Alexander Forbes, 
Major Wm. H. Johnson, Mrs. Julia Jordan, Mrs. Susan Jones, 
Mrs. Nellie Coleman, Jas M. Wilkerson, and Henry Johnson, 
Treasurer. From the Sabbath School: Capt. J. A. C. Stevens, 
Barney Gaines, Mrs. Margaret Kennard, Mrs. Minerva Tolliver, 
Mrs. Harriet McCray, Moses F. Hunter. 

The following named persons were also appointed Finance 
Committee and Recorders, viz. from the church Finance Commit- 
tee; Edward Brooks, Burwell Baldwin, Miss Lucretia Campbell, 
Deacon Richard Cosby, Jno. H. Davis, William Emmett Drewery, 
Miss Sarah Farlej 7 , Miss Mary L. Goffney, Deacon James Har- 
graves, Deacon Richard Hawks, John Jones, Charles H. James, 
Mrs. Alice Matthews, Mrs. Rebecca Peters, William M. Sprat- 
ley, Richard Smith, Deacon Robert Shaw, Miss Indie Pryor, 
Andrew Jackson, Mrs. Fannie Wilkerson, Miss Emma J. Carter, 
Mrs. Sophronia Robinson, Miss Mary Epps, Miss Nellie Archer, 
Mrs. Nellie Coleman. Recorders: Miss Rachael Williamson. 
Mrs. Nannie B. Johnson, Miss Lizzie B. Tabb, Mrs. Mattie 
Stevens, Miss Bessie D. Avery, Miss Madeline Smith, Miss Ida 
K. Bell, Miss Nazarene Wyrd. From the Sabbath School, 
Finance Committee: Alfred Taylor, Miss Corinne Hill, Miss 
Fannie Hall, Edward Wood. Recorders: Victoria Goffney and 
Lottie Wood. 

The church also voted that after the burial expenses of Dr. 
Williams had been paid the collections of the first Sabbath of 
each month should go to the Monument Fund, so long as such 
collections were needed, and the church had no permanent pas- 
tor. In the event of a selection of a pastor before the neces- 
sary amount of money was raised, the fourth Sabbath of each 
month should be substituted for the first. 

The church at this sitting, appointed a committee to draw up 
Resolutions of Condolence in memory of Dr. Williams. The 
committee, as appointed, was James M. Wilkerson, Richard 
Kennard and J. A. C. Stevens. The following resolutions were 
drafted and presented, and on motion were adopted by the 
church later: 



24 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

RESOLUTIONS OF RESPECT. 

Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, our Heavenly Fa- 
ther in His allwise Providence, to take from us our beloved 
pastor, Rev. Henry Williams, and whereas, he has served the 
Gilfield Baptist Church so faithfully and zealously for the past 
thirty- four years and by his undenying zeal has caused our 
church to prosper in peace and Christian union, having added 
to its membership during his pastorate more than five thousand 
by baptism and otherwise; and whereas during all the years in 
our midst he has borne himself with Christian dignity and by 
precept and example has won the love and respect of all lovers 
of Christianity, therefore be it 

Resolved 1st. We bow in obedience to the will of Him who has 
taken our beloved leader away, believing he has only gone to 
reap a reward for labors justly and well performed among mor- 
tals on this earth. 

Resolved 2nd. That we shall ever cherish his memory, and 
while mere words are inadequate to express our great loss, yet 
in the hearts of his afflicted members is his worth recorded. 

Resolved 3rd. That we shall strive to emulate his virtues and 
demean ourselves as Christians and show by our great zeal and 
love for our church that his influence shall never die. 

Resolved 01. That a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to 
the family of our beloved pastor, and another to the press and 
also that they be spread upon the minutes of our church. 

Jas. M. Wilkeeson, Chairman, 
Richard Kennard, 
J. A. C. Stevens, 

The Sabbath School appointed a committee consisting of Maj . 
Wm. H. Johnson, Misses Bessie D. Avery and Lucretia Camp- 
bell to draft Resolutions of Condolence, resulting in the prepar- 
ing and adopting of the following resolutions by the S. S. 

On Monday, March 10, 1900, the Monument Committee met 
in the Chapel, and after a statement as to the object of the meet- 
ing had been given, the Committee proceeded to elect a Chair- 
man and a Secretary. Capt. J. A. C. Stevens was elected Chair- 
man and Major Wm. H. Johnson was elected Secretary. Bids 
for the erection of the monument were solicited. On March 22nd 
the Committee again assembled but could not make selection or 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D., 25 

come to satisfactory terms with artists. Finally on March 26th, 
the Committee met, and after some little delay in selecting a 
satisfactory style of monument, a selection was made and the 
contract was awarded to Mr. Charles M. Walsh, he agreeing to 
do the work at a cost of $1,410. 

On Sabbath day, March the 8th, in accordance with action 
taken by the Sabbath School, Memorial Exercises were conducted 
in Memory of Dr. Williams. 

The school assembled at 11:30 o'clock A. M., when the fol- 
lowing program was rendered, organists for the occasion were 
Mrs. Nannie B. Johnson, Teacher of class 9, and Miss Bessie D. 
Avery, Teacher of class 2. 

Sang Doxology. 

Scripture Beading, 12th Chapter of Hebrews, by the Supt., 
Wm. H. Johnson. 

Frayer by Barney Gaines, Teacher of class 22. 

Music, "Shall we gather at the Eiver." 

Beading of Memorial Besolutions adopted by the Sabbath 
School, by Frank Wilkinson, Sr., Teacher of class 13. 

Press comments, by Clarence B. Peters, Teacher of class 19. 

Music, "Abide with Me." 

Paper — By Mrs. Fannie Wilkinson, Teacher of class 10: 

EEV. HENEY WILLIAMS AS A CITIZEN. 

In selecting from the many various phases of the character 
and personalities of the late Bev. Henry Williams, D. L\, the 
beloved and esteemed Superintendent of our Sabbath School I 
would beg your attention for a few minutes, though hours 
could be consumed on this as well as other subjects, to him as a 
citizen. 

As a citizen, as well as in all other avenues of life, he was 
loyal, faithful and true. Ever the defender of the oppressed 
and down-trodden, ever the standard bearer of love, truth, and 
righteousness. 

As far as he could, he supported and upheld the arms of those 
in authority, never forsaking or deviating from the paths of 
truth, and never forgetting the interest of his own race or to 
speak out boldly of those things that tended to degrade and 
crush us as a people. 



2 6 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

And, again, as a citizen, he was loved and respected by the 
high and the low alike. By the former because his high quali- 
ties were in accordance with what they expected from one of his 
rank; by the latter, because these qualities were only more bril- 
liantly displayed, when, without stooping to their level, he yet 
extended a hand to help them to a plane of highest and noblest 
manhood on which he himself stood, for "To know him, was to 
love him; to love him to obey." 

Unlike many other leaders of his race, he dealt not in the 
chicanery and arts of politics, he could not be bribed, but at all 
times fearlessly and boldly espoused the cause of his race and 
looked out for their betterments spiritually, morally and 
financially. 

Truly can we say that a good citizen from us has gone; truly 
a noble teacher from Israel has fallen, yet as giants of the forest 
be felled and others rise up in their places, so also will he be 
succeeded by others, but never will there be a truer, nobler, 
braver defender of the laws of this Commonwealth or of the 
Constitution of the United States than the late Rev. Henry 
Williams. 

In his dealings with his fellow -citizens he was honest, exact, 
and punctual, one of his maxims being, "Punctuality is the 
politeness of kings," and yet another, "Owe no man anything." 

These principles he taught us, and to these should we cling 
if we wish to retain that high standard of citizenship to which 
he has led us. 

We should strive to emulate his precepts and examples, 
thereby being living monuments of his greatness, labors and 
love, and to remember that 

"Lives of great men all remind us, 

We can make our lives sublime, 
And in dying leave behind us 

Footprints in the sands of time." 

Paper— By Thos. M. Griffin, Sr., teacher of Class No. 20: 

HE A YEN. 

"There remaineth therefore a rest for the people of God." — 
Heb. 4-9. 

Rev. Henry Williams, D. D., our beloved Superintendent has 
reached Heaven, the place of love and rest. 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 27 

Heaveu is the only place where the conditions of love can be 
fulfilled. There it is essentially mutual; everybody loves every- 
body. In this world of wickedness and sin, it seems impossible 
to be all on a perfect equality when we meet people who are 
bright and beautiful and good as our departed Superintendent 
was, we have no difficulty in loving. There was no fear of mis- 
placed confidence in him. 

We were never deceived by his love. You all know when a 
suspicion fastens upon any one we love our happiness from that 
moment is at an end. But there was no suspicion in his love, 
and now he is in Heaven where all his love. 

"Beyond these chilling winds and gloomy skies, 

Beyond death's cloudy portal, 
There is a land where beauty never dies, 

Where love becomes immortal." 

Oh, ye whose loeks are wet with dews of the night of grief; 
ye whose hearts are heavy because that well known voice sounds 
no more in this school, all of you that have accepted Christ as 
your Saviour can point to heaven where our Superintendent is, 
as your final rest. In heaven was David triumphant; but once 
he mourned Absalom. There is Abraham enthroned; but once 
he wept for Sarah. There is Paul. He is exultant, but he once 
sat with his feet in the stocks. There is Payson, radiant with 
immortal health; but on earth he was always sick. 

No toil, no tears, no parting, no strife, no agonizing cough, no 
night, no storm to ruffle the crystal sea, no tremor in the ever- 
lasting song; but rest, perfect rest, unending rest. 

The sweetest music is that which welcomes the soul to heaven. 
God grant that when we die, ours will be like his, and that we 
may hear stealing upon the air the mellow chime of all the celes- 
tial bells saying; 

Come, come, "come ye blessed, enter into the joy of your 
Lord." 

In his best hours, home, his own sinless home, a home with 
his father above that starry sky will be the wish of every Chris- 
tian. He looks around him; the world is full of suffering; he 
is distressed by its sorrows, and vexed by its sins; He looks 
within him; he finds much in his own corruption to grieve him. 
In the language of a heart repelled, grieved, vexed, he often 
turned his eyes upward, saying, "I would not live always." No, 



28 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

not for all the gold of the world's mines, not for all the pearls 
of the seas; not for all the crowns of her Kingdom would I live 
here always. Like a bird about to migrate to those sunny lauds 
where no winter sheds her snows, he was often in spirit preening 
his wings for the hour of his flight to glory. 

Our Superintendent was sound in faith, calling on sinners to 
repent. Not sparing himself, but giving his labors to the Lord, 
and to his fellow men. Towards his latter days his zeal for the 
good of souls seemed to increase. Well might the unrighteous 
but enlightened prophet wish to die the death of the righteous. 
Brother Williams was one of those who stood up in defence of 
the truth amid fiery persecutions, while he lived the object of 
veneration and regard among his brethren in Christ. It is due 
to him, and the cause he advocated, to preserve a memorial of 
his character, toils and sufferings, as far as he followed his Mas- 
ter, that others may be stimulated by his example to do good 
and glorify God, though the wicked may rage, taking counsel 
together against the Lord and his anointed, yet we see their pur- 
poses frustrated, and all their plans overturned. He who sitteth 
in the heavens laughs at them; the Lord holds them in derision. 
Music — "We shall reach the Summer Land." 
Paper — By Miss Sarah Dabney, Teacher of Class 11: 

NOBILITY OF CHAEACTER. 

Mr. Supt. Ladies and Gentleman: 

It requires no exaggeration to pay a high and most de- 
serving tribute to the life and nobility of character of our be- 
loved and sainted Supt., Rev. Henry Williams. The truth 
simply and plainly spoken, will best serve our purpose in the 
part we will take on this occasion. For Eev. Henry Williams 
was a plain and unassuming man but his work was most effectual. 
He dealt in facts and was always armed with reason to justify 
his acts, and whatever work he accomplished, and there was no 
little amount to his credit, he accomplished it most by persis- 
tence, and steady work, taking no steps backward. 

His high rank as a Christian Minister, his great fame as a 
leader of men, were due to his zeal, will power, courage and 
determination. Even had he taken up the profession of arms 
and entered military life, he would have been a great com- 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 29 

mander, for he ruled by the nobility of his character. He had 
the power to lead men, for his will power was wonderful. His 
personal and Christian character were beyond suspicion. 
Schemes, jobs, or covert efforts to secure any object or legislation 
which he thought wrong were neither countenanced nor en- 
couraged. It is somewhat significant that these characteristics 
were so rare as to be the glory of his life, but it was. 

All people honored these virtues and so honored him. His 
nobility of character was one of the powers that gave him his 
influence. He never faltered, he never hesitated in a course he 
once thought right. Those of his followers who could not 
agree with him bowed before his universally admitted stainless 
character. For that (nobility of character) was the brightest 
jewel in the coronet of his fame. It is difficult to estimate the 
influence of such a character. He was a reader of human na- 
ture; a profund, practical philosopher. 

Few grasped as he did the logic of events. It may be said of 
him, that in a human sense, he saw the end from the beginning. 
To illustrate this last point, of at the beginning seeing the end, 
I am told that back in '65 or '66, when he first came, that in a 
speech, on the Poplar Lawn, now Central Park, he advised us 
as a people just liberated, to devote ourselves, our time, our all, 
to material progress, the acquisition of prosperity, trades and 
education, and above all to make friends of our neighbors among 
whom we live, rather than seek political advancement. In fact 
to leave politics alone. From this he made enemies. But did 
he not see the end from the beginning ? Who dares to say that 
we would not now be better off and would have no doubt in many 
instances saved ourselves from many injustices heaped upon us 
had his advice been taken and followed generally? 

His strong points were a wealth of common sense, an incom- 
patible honesty, steadfast in honorable purpose, an untiring in- 
dustry, all supplemented by the highest order of physical, 
moral and Christian courage. 

He was of the stuff martyrs are made. He was a Puritan, for 
his was an indomitable will, an inflexible purpose, and when 
once he decided what duty required of him he moved forward to 
the discharge of its requirements, and there was no change or 
shadow of turning until his work was done. Duty to him was 
a word of imperial command. 



30 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

He would have been a useful instrument to Cromwell. He 
would have sat at pleasure as a member of the court that sent 
Charles to the block, and I believe he would have with the same 
serenity that marked the Rornan Regulars have returned to 
Carthage to be tortured rather thau to advise the Romans to a 
cessation of hostilities, or to make peace with the Carthagenians. 
He was a leader not by accident or by choice, but by virtue of a 
commission that men might disregard but not revoke. 

Lastly, but not least, what lessons must be taught us by his 
life? Be steadfast in the right and emulate his example. For 
though a monument of granite or bronze may by loving hearts 
be erected to his memory, yet that in time will decay. He will 
be more thankful if we practice his precepts, and store away in 
our hearts his advice to be practiced in our lives. This is what 
he desires most of all. 

We miss him. The Sunday School, the city, the State misses 
him, and it will be long before his like will be found again. 

The Sunday School may have a leader, but she will never 
have one who loved her with a devotion less selfish, or will 
serve her with more courage and devotion. 

And so we leave our dearly beloved; his career well rounded; 
his life's work done; the strife of this terrestrial field of action 
forgotten; all cares rolled away; all pains soothed. 

Secured from worldly chances and mishaps, 
Here lurks no treason; here no envy swells; 
Here grows no grudges; here are no storms, 
No noise; but silence, rest, eternal peace. 

Paper — By Miss Annie Williams, Assistant Teacher of Class 
No. 9. 

REV. WILLIAMS AS A DISCIPLINARIAN. 

By the death of our beloved Pastor, Rev. Henry Williams, I 
feel that we have not only lost a Pastor and Superintendent, but 
a Disciplinarian. Dear friends, I feel that though I had all 
languages at my command, I would not be able to do this noble 
leader justice. Pen will never tell his true worth to this communi- 
ty. Such an example he laid! Oh, that all of us would strive to 
lead such exemplary, noble lives! Truly, he was a man of God, 
for an ungodly man could not walk in and out before men with such 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 3 I 

spotless character. As a Disciplinarian, he stood second to no man . 

This talent seemed born in him. During the thirty four years 
he was Pastor of this, the Oilfield Baptist Church, it was his 
true Christian character, that caused him to be such an example, 
such a leader of men, and, it is character to-day which preaches 
more than eloquence or learning. Words get their weight from 
him who speaks them. Rev. Henry Williams was a man whom all 
true Christians and lovers of truth respected and loved. He 
labored for the upbuilding of fallen humanity, both spiritually 
and intellectually, until that monster Death struck the fatal 
blow. Mauy are the leaders, who so glory in their elevated 
positions, that in child-like conceit of their authority, they pa- 
rade their loftiness, dictate to their people, and feel that they 
have special charms upon their constitutions. Not so with our 
noble Disciplinarian. He strove not to please the world, but to 
please our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. His life was pure and 
simple; his faith calm and trusting; his heart gentle and loving. 
Yet he was an incitement to the spirit of the time, a glory of hu- 
man power to be admired as a model, and followed as an example. 
He was a man who did a mighty work for this community, and 
whose praise will be on the tongues of unborn generations. We 
in our weakness would have him, our noble leader back with us, 
but when we think how happy he must be in having reached 
that Golden City, after having labored in this part of the vine- 
yard so long with us, we can but say, "Sleep on beloved, we 
shall try to follow the example laid by you for us, while here, 
and at last meet you around our Father's Throne where part- 
ings shall be no more." We miss you; we feel that the place 
made vacant by your death can never again be filled, but we 
know that this separation is not for always Beloved Disciplina- 
rian, though thy body is lying in yonder City of the Dead, and 
we shall never again hear thy voice, we feel that thy noble ex- 
ample and thy wondrous teachings shall stand as a monument, 
which time shall never be able to efface. 

Music — "Only Remembered." 

Paper — By Miss Bessie D. Avery, teacher of Class, No. 2. 

REV. HENRY WILLIAMS AS A SUPERINTENDENT. 
When we speak of Rev. Henry Williams as "Superintendent," 



32 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

we mean to imply all that is included in the word — "Superin- 
tendent." 

In discharge of his manifold duties, he labored earnestly, leav- 
ing undone nothing that should have been done; always striving 
to make the Sabbath School a model school in every respect. 

He zealously labored to indoctrinate those principles in the 
minds of the children, that would make them useful Christian 
men and women for the future church. 

The great biblical truths impressed upon our minds by him 
will always stand as monuments to his memory. We can truly 
say of our beloved Superintendent, that his whole being was his 
work, never shirking any duty, but trying always to do some- 
thing to help others. 

Our Sunday School, in which he has labored so long, and so 
faithfully, will always cherish his great, good deeds. 

We can imitate his noble qualities without fear of doing 
wrong. We can justly say that a great, good man has fallen. 

Being a thorough student of the Bible, and an able minister 
of the New Testament, he was well qualified for the honorable 
position which he held for so many years. 

Although he had passed his three-score years, we did not think 
of him as being old, for he was filled with activity, and as the 
old tree puts forth new twigs each year, just so he sought to put 
forth some new effort for the improvement of the Sabbath School. 
Age brought to him grand opportunities. Experience, the best 
of all teachers, made him a great teacher. 

When we look back over his very useful, well-spent life, we 
can but say, "Well done good and faithful servant, enter thou 
into the joys of thy Lord." 

The battle of life's journey is ended. The victory won. The 
warrior has laid down his armor, and now, after a well earned 
repose, rests quietly from his labor. 

As a Sabbath School, let us strive to live, that our last days 
may be like his. 

God saw fit to take him from us, 

And we sadly niiss him, too, 
But we hope again to meet him, 

When our journey here is through. 

We cannot forget the lesson taught us. 
We'll cherish them for his sake, 




GiLiFiEi.n Baftist Chukch Edifice, 
Perky Street. 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. $$ 

And remove not the Ancient Landmark, 
Of which he often spake. 

Let us then, strive to meet him, 

On that happy, peaceful shore, 
Where his sainted soul is singing — 

Praises forevermore. 

Paper — By Miss Lizzie B. Tabb, Class No. 5. 

REV. HENRY WILLIAMS AS A CHRISTIAN. 

In reading this paper I very sensibly feel my inability to ad- 
vance one idea regarding the Christian qualities of our lamented 
Superintendent and Brother, but I have written a few undeni- 
able facts as they presented themselves to my mind. 

Having known him from my early childhood I feel conscien- 
tious in saying that he strove earnestly to live the life of a 
Christian. The life of which Paul speaks, when he says, 
"Nevertheless I live, yet not I but Christ liveth in me." Then 
our degree of righteousness is in proportion to the perfection of 
our union with God. To fortify ourselves against the tempta- 
tions of this world, it is necessary to pray and labor to gain that 
perfection . 

I am not claiming too much for our sainted Superintendent 
when I say he was untiring in his labors, strong in his convic- 
tions, and that he endeavored, as much as in him was, to benefit 
his fellow man by his rich endowments. 

He was assiduous in the discharge of his Christian duties, and 
untiring in his efforts to elevate his race in manners, morals and 
religion. He realized that human life is not only a precious 
gift but that it is also a sacred trust. 

He was plain and unassuming in his manners, of spotless in- 
tegrity, and a strong advocate for truth and justice. 

To the many who have received religious training under him 
he has most assuredly impressed you with the fact that you owe 
a solemn duty to God; and first among his many examples, due 
respect and reverence for the house of God, which fact will long 
be a noble tribute to his memory . For a good religious training 
is the basis of society. It operates powerfully on it; con- 
tributing in various ways to its stability and prosperity. 

I might point out a variety of other noble Christian traits in 
3 



34 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

this servant of the Most High. His self-denial, his faith, his 
satisfaction with the allotment of Providence, and his entire and 
unconditional submission to the will of his Heavenly Father. 
But I imagine enough has already been said. If we are properly 
disposed to admire the nobility of our departed brother, and if 
the character of a good man is a legacy to posterity many will 
rise up and call him blessed. 

But is all this admonition, prayer and Christian work for 
nothing ! The Bible promises to all the faithful eternal lustre. 
"They that turn many to righteousness shall shine as the stars 
above." 

I would like to impress upon the minds of my young hearers 
the importance of trying to imitate this good man. Diligently 
strive to emulate his virtues, and make it your daily thought 
that you seek to make yourselves better Christian men and 
women for having been associated with him. 

Let us pray that the dignity and greatness of his works 
among us may be confirmed by results; that when our summons 
comes to throw aside this mortal coil; that having lived a similar 
life, that like him, as we approach the river's brink we may go 
with the same unfaltering trust, singing as he did ere he 
departed, 

On Jordan's stormy banks I stand 

And cast a wishful eye, 
To Canan's fair and happy land, 
Where my possessions lie. 

Solo — "Flee as a Bird," by Bobt. J. Jones, Teacher of class 16. 
Paper — By Miss Madeline C. Smith, Teacher of class 6: 

REV. HENRY WILLIAMS AS A PASTOR. 

Dear Sabbath School, Ladies and Gentlemen. 

You are aware of the purpose for which we are gathered. 
All present are acquainted with the facts of the sorrowful 
event which removed our beloved pastor from our midst. We 
do not marvel that he is dead, for death is the unavoidable 
end of all — but in this instance, he was one of the most upright, 
honest, highest types of the heavenly heirs, that we had among 
us. Truly he was the noblest of his kind. I am confident that 
a more impassionate tongue than mine must eulogize him, but 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 35 

English cauuot do — nor would I admit the sounds of other 
tongues — rather will I leave his record to be read on "Heaven's 
Immortal Scroll," where angels bright have written in elo- 
quence of God. Dr. Henry Williams, our own brother, our pas- 
tor, noble and true, has gone. His voice will not resound 
through this Auditorium again, for he has taken his seat in the 
silent "Hall of Death," where neither light of day, nor thunder 
will change the mighty stillness. In yonder City of the Dead, 
lies his lifeless form. As the endless chain of years rolls on, 
the seasons will adorn his couch in regula # r turn — winter has al- 
ready woven a shroud for him, the same as it will for you and 
for me. Soon, spring will kiss his resting place with a tender 
touch of warmth, which will arouse the slumbering flowers to 
decorate his grave. Perhaps when summer's fierce rays would 
wither the flowers, some steady oak will stetch its branches, and 
screen the beauty that would be marred, and then at noontime 
and at eve, this man of God, now laid to rest will continue in 
blissful and undisturbed repose. At last the silent autumn 
hours are come, reminding us of the evening of our lives. And 
if we live, as he strove to have us live, the autumn of our life 
will be as beautiful as the autumn of the year. 

As a pastor, our sainted Brother Williams will never be ex- 
celled! In his nature were the principles which make a true 
disciple of Christ, combined were, Truth, Wisdom, Hope, 
Charity and Faith — Yes, he had all of these. They caused him 
to be a light, the transparency of his soul reflected that light, 
and some man or some woman will forever hereafter retain a 
part of its lustre. 

For the unusual period of time that he fought for Christ within 
these walls, his every action betrayed his calling. And now 
that he has wrapped his mantle about him, and like a warrior, 
laid himself down to rest — in that bright morning angels will 
eulogize such lives as his, and then, and only then will language 
tell his worth. Let it suffice to say, that generations yet unborn 
will know of him and mothers will call their children's attention 
to this building, which will always stand as a lasting and con- 
spicuous monument to his worth. Yes, his worth as a pastor 
will only now be known. He was such a man as we like to be 
with while alive, and grieve with inexpressible pang when 
claimed by -'Death." Let us who have witnessed this noble 



36 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

and well spent life, be encouraged to improve our lives, so that 
when life's fitfnl tide is o'er, "Death may truly be but a narrow 
stream, dividing a heavenly land from ours." 

Paper — By Robert J. Jones, teacher of Class No. 16. 

REV. HENRY WILLIAMS AS A LEADER. 

On account of man's indifference and natural inclination to 
disregard and disobey the rules and regulations established for 
his government, it has been ever necessary to have leaders 
among them for the purpose of continually reminding them of 
the great importance of keeping within the bounds of the law. 
There are many kinds of leaders and would-be leaders; some 
who essay to lead simply for the emolument they hope to 
receive as a result of such leadership; others from simple, selfish 
ambition, and a desire to show their superiority over other men. 

Bnt these classes of leaders are not the ones I propose to speak 
of at this time, but rather of the upright, conscientious leader 
whose single object is to make men better morally, physically, 
mentally, and, above all, to make them spiritually better. And 
to accomplish this a man must possess certain qualifications. 

Now, what are these qualifications? 

Well, he must be intellectually, morally and spiritually 
qualified. He must be familiar with the make-up of men in 
general, and especially of those whom he would lead. 

I am persuaded, that as has been said of poets, so is it with 
successful leaders — they are born, not made. I don't suppose 
any doubt that, for I am sure we have all seen illiterate men 
who possess more of the real qualities of leadership than many 
a college graduate. 

Moses was one of the early and born leaders, and that was the 
foundation of his future greatness. Pharaoh's daughter, when 
she adopted him, started to build on that foundation (though, 
of course, we understand she didn't do so advisedly), the grand 
superstructure which was rounded, finished and completed by 
our Creator when he appeared to Moses in the burning bush 
and called him from a foreign country to lead the children of 
Israel to the promised land. Moses, in his journey, often found 
the Israelites rebellious and expressing a desire to return to the 
house of bondage, but he never faltered, but continued to press 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. ^ 

forward toward the laud to which the Lord had commanded 
him to lead the Israelites. 

Always maintaining strict discipline he would continue the 
onward march, even though it became necessary to kill some of 
the people in order to do so. He only wanted to know the 
right and then go ahead, regardless of consequences. 

Such a leader was the late Rev. Henry Williams. I have said 
successful leaders were born and not made, and since Rev. Wil- 
liams was such a pre-eminently successful leader, we all must 
conclude at once, that he was a leader born. He had that in- 
born nature strengthened and fortified by both education and 
experience. While the qualifications I have mentioned are all 
necessary, yet there is one other that Rev. Henry Williams pos- 
sessed that stands out prominently from all the rest; that was 
his commission from Him who called Moses while in the burn- 
ing bush. 

He accepted the position ; held, maintained, and defended it 
until the 18th day of February, 1900, when he delivered the 
same to Him who had commissioned him, nearly half a century 
before. During that time he proved himself a very great and 
successful leader as is evidenced by this large, flourishing church 
and Sabbath School thoroughly indoctrinated in Baptist doctrine 
and principles; and his having kept the same united and intact 
up to his death, speaks volumes for his wise and sagacious lea- 
dership. He towered above the ordinary man as the giant oak 
towers above the shrubs of the forest. His ability and influence 
as a teacher were felt and seen not only in this school and the 
church to which it is connected, but was felt all over this city 
and State especially iu matters relative to the spiritual and 
moral interests of the people. I might say further that his 
power and influence were not confined to the geographical limits 
of his State, but rather spread out North, South, East and 
West until they were nearly as this great country of ours. And, 
though he is dead, still he lives. I might be permitted to repeat 
that familiar quotation from Longfellow: 

Lives of great men all remind us 

We can make our lives sublime; 
And departing leave behind us 

Foot-prints on the Sands of Time. 

By his undaunted courage, sterling worth, and upright, Chris- 



38 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

tiau character, he made his life sublime. He was a leader dur- 
ing his life by precept and example, and is a leader still by the 
foot-prints he left on the Sands of Time, that is by the impres- 
sions he made upon the minds, characters and dispositions of 
men, which if we will only follow, will lead us to that Celestial 
City, where he now rests from his labors and his works do follow 
him. We, the thousands that he has taught, guided, brought 
to the Saviour, and baptized, are his works and are following 
him. We are following not only by keeping his teachings and 
emulating his Christian virtues, but following him who has 
preceeded us from labor to reward. He led men as few others 
could. 

Though there were some who revolted against his leadership, 
they were forced to acknowledge his superior ability. That 
some should not speak or think well of his leadership was no 
more than he expected, for I remember so often hearing him quote 
that passage of Scripture which says, "woe unto that man when 
all men speak well of him," and I am fully persuaded that this 
was the secret of his success. He did the will of the Master 
regardless of the criticisms or plaudits of men. Such a char- 
acter and determined disposition are necessary in all true and 
successful leaders, for it has been said, he who strives to please 
every one, is liable not to please any one. 

He has fought the good fight on earth, and now has crossed 
over the river to receive a crown of glory, and to hear the wel- 
come plaudit, "Well done good and faithful servant, enter ye 
into joys forever more." 

Music — "Come Ye Disconsolate," by Mrs. Fannie Wilkerson, 
Teacher Class 10; Mrs. Kate Jackson, Teacher Class 8; Miss 
Indie Pry or; James M. Wilkerson and William H. Johnson. 
Address by President James H. Johnston, of the Virginia Nor- 
mal and Collegiate Institute. 

Music — "Sleep On, Beloved." 

After the rendition of the program a collection of $11.90 was 
lifted on behalf of the Monument Fund. 



CHAPTER III. 



On the first Sabbath in April the Church conducted her 
Memorial Exercises, when the following program was rendered: 

Song — Doxology, by the choir. 

Reading of 2d Timothy by Rev. C. W. McColl, pastor of the 
Zion Baptist Church. 

Prayer — By Rev. R. H. Cooley. 

Music — "Saviour Like a Shepherd Lead Us," by the choir. 

Paper — By Miss Emma J. Carter. 

REV. HENRY WILLIAMS AS A DENOMINATIONALIST. 

Poem — Selected by Mrs. Bettie Robinson and Miss Sarah 
Bartlett, and read by William H. Johnson. 

Yes, cover his grave with the choicest of flowers, 

The rarest, the purest that grow; 
And gather them fresh in the morn's early hours, 

And let them be whiter than snow. 

For such was the spirit of him whom we miss, 

When it left its frail, earthly abode, 
And flew to the regions of heavenly bliss, 

To dwell with his Saviour and God. 

And form them in shapes to portray him we love, 

(Which language can never express), 
Thus some must take shape like the snowy white dove, 

To symbol his true faithfulness. 

Then take whitest roses and fashion a crown, 

To show how he conquered by love; 
And wreaths of immortelles his brow must adorn, 

His conquering triumphs to prove. 

And a cross of white lilies, all sprinkled with red, 

And wet with the tears of the night, 
Shall tell of the great tribulations he had 

Ere ent'ring the blest realms of light. 

Let anchors of daisies emblem his firm hope, 

Cast far o'er the shadowy vale; 
A hope that now blooms in fruitions full scope 

In the life which never shall fail. 



40 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

On pillows, composed of the softest of flowers, 

His dear, troubled head shall repose, 
To picture his rest in those beautiful bowers 

In Paradise, whither he goes. 

And pearly white slippers — a soft downy pair — 

We'll place on his feet that we love; 
Prepared to ascend Heaven's bright, shining stair, 

To the chrystalline pavement above. 

A harp of sweet flowers, all golden and bright 

We'll place in his hand; 
Its strings of spirea of silvery white, 

Already for Heaven's glad band. 

And oft, at this hour, in fond fancy we'll hear 
The strains that shall breathe from its strings; 

In dreams we will see him in robes that appear 
As white as the angels' bright wings. 

And the song that he'll sing on those heavenly plains, 
As he bows at his dear Saviour's feet, 

Will be of the fountain that cleansed him from stains, 
And made him for Heaven so meet. 

He'll sing of his sufferings, the life that He gave, 

The humiliation He bore, 
And He'll sing how He rose from death and the grave 

To reign and to save evermore. 

He will cast at his foot-stool his glorious crown, 
Crying "Worthy tbe Lamb which was slain, 

Of glory and honor, of love and renown," 
While angels shall echo the same. 

"Made perfect through suffering," like Jesus his Lord, 

His soul shall exultiugly sing; 
"Where now is thy victory, O grave, once so feared, 

O death, where, O where is thy sting." 

Beneath the green sward as it slopes to the West, 

Toward the grave of the setting sun, 
His dear, wearied form we will lay here to rest 

Till the first resurrection morn. 

By eternity's type — the limitless sea— 
Whose waves shall for him ever mourn, 

Just seems of all places most fitting to be 
The spot for his last earthly home, 

Around it we'll plant fond mementoes of love, 

The willow, to weep for our dead, 
Forget-nots shall our un forge tfuln ess prove, 

And violets their incense to shed. 






REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 41 

We intrust him to thee, sweet angels of God, 

Guard well 'rouud his dear, sacred clay, 
Till the trumpet shall sound and he leaves this abode 

To soar to the mansions of day. 

Reunited above he'll walk hand in hand 

With his loved and lost ones of yore; 
And watching he'll wait on Heaven's gold strand, 

To welcome our feet to that shore. 

Farewell, gentle pastor— beloved pastor, farewell — 

Lost to vision, to memory dear; 
Here oft will we gather, thy sad story to tell, 

And moisten thy grave with a tear. 

Mrs. Elizabeth Robinson and Sarah Bartlett. 

Solo and Chorus — "I have read of a Beautiful City," by Mrs. 
Margaret Boiling and Choir. 

Paper — By Wm. H. Johnson, Supt. Gilfield Baptist Sunday 
School. 

A TEIBUTE TO THE EEV. HENEY WILLIAMS, D. D. 

Eev. Henry Williams was born in Spottsylvania County, Vir- 
ginia, October 13th, 1831, and died February 18th, 1900, aged 
68 years. He entered upon the pastorate of the Gilfield Baptist 
Church, and the Superintendency of the Gilfield Sunday School 
in 1865, and continued as pastor and superintendent to the day 
of his death. He was truly a man who loved and feared God 
rather than man. He was a veritable Eock of Gibraltar in the 
cause of Christ, and truly might it be said of him, that he was 
ordained of God from the beginning to preach His gospel, and 
God prospered the work of his hands. 

To his church he was a leader, a shepherd, a pilot. No army 
ever had a more true and tried leader than the church had in 
him. jSo flock could boast of a more considerate, tender shep- 
herd than this flock could boast of in him. No pilot ever roamed 
the seas that had a keener eye or firmer hand, than was exhibited 
by him in steering his church clear of all danger and disaster. 
His footsteps are indelibly stamped in this church, and the 
echoes of his voice in clarion tones will forever resound from the 
walls within which he so earnestly declared the unalterable 
Truths of God. 

When he assumed charge of the Gilfield Baptist Church, the 



42 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

membership was 1,250, during his pastorate, there were added 
to the church, by baptism at his hands, 4,455 souls; by letter 
and otherwise 1,326, a total of 5,781. A grand army of the 
true and of the living God. 

What a glittering crown will be placed upon his noble brow! 
The church can by faith view him standing hard by the Master, 
and in touch with the apostles and patriarchs of old, as one of 
the brightest jewels, to be gathered when Jesus shall come. 

Whatever of grandeur, whatever of glory, whatever of integ- 
rity, whatever of moral worth, whatever of discipline, whatever 
of stability, whatever of unity, whatever of prosperity this 
church possesses may be traced to the heart, mind, and hand of 
him so loved and honored by us as a pastor, Rev. Henry Williams, 
D. D. 

But did he have only the older portion of the vineyard, the 
matured vines at heart? No, but the Sabbath School held an 
enviable place in his great heart. We have followed him, 
yea, closely in his footsteps for thirty four years as a Sunday 
School, composed of the younger class of people generally, and 
as an individual, and never has he led us wrong. At times his 
discipline seemed severe, but we are proud and happy to 
acknowledge, that, in that discipline, lay whatever of goodness 
and loftiness we possess. The teachers of the Sabbath School 
and the scholars almost idolized him. His hold upon them was 
so great, their confidence in him so strong, that it seemed that as 
he moved so did the school. He was firm, yet tender hearted; 
a strict disciplinarian; an uncompromising enemy of wrong do- 
ing whether it be in the child or in the adult in highest position. 
He was in the language of the day, apace with the times in all 
things beneficial to his church and Sabbath School. This hand- 
some church edifice, the beautiful chapel in which the Sabbath 
School holds its sittings, decorated with Biblical pictures, charts 
and Bible maps, furnished with a handsome deep toned organ, 
supplied with a large library of more than 2,000 volumes of the 
choicest Sabbath School literature, excluding Bibles, Testaments 
and singing books, supplemented each month by two papers, and 
each quarter by the " Advanced" and "Senior Quarterlies" and 
the "Baptist Teacher," with a large roll of Bible Lesson pictures 
for each Sabbath's lesson, and having each of its twenty-three 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 43 

class positions indicated by a beautiful silk banner, attest the 
proof of his interest in us. 

The fact that for thirty-four years, unceasingly, he kept a 
church with a general membership of 1500 to 2500 and a Sab- 
bath School of 500 to 700 intact, free from broils, factions and 
dismemberment; free from debt and handsomely equipped, 
proves the ability of the man; a parliamentarian; a theologian, 
a financier, a disciplinarian of the front rank. 

As a financier, an organizer, an engineer, he was an adept. 
His plans were all original. He had a peculiar way of his own 
of conducting affairs, and judging by consequences his way was 
the way. When he assumed the pastorate of this church, we 
worshipped in a brick structure of fair proportions which would 
seat about 1500. After some years, it became necesary to make 
a change. The old edifice was razed to the ground, and in its 
stead, in 1874, was ereeted a chapel at a cost of $1,900, having a 
seating capacity of 1,000, now being used by the Sabbath School, 
and which was paid for when finished. About three years af- 
terwards the present auditorium, having a seating capacity of 
2,000 and costing $25,000 was built within four years, and paid 
for within 12 months after its completion. In the planning of 
this structure Brother Williams suggested that the church make 
its own bricks, and it was under his supervision that the plan 
was executed at a saving of $2,000. Brother Williams would 
never countenance such a thing as the allowing of concerts, 
feasts, fairs, or entertainments of any kind to be conducted on 
the church edifice grounds. His motto was, that this house shall 
be a house of prayer, not one of merchandise. At his death, 
the church was free from debt of any consequence, and the Sab- 
bath School was provided with everything that is necessary for 
a Sabbath School. There is nothing in the column of debts, but 
much in the column of credits. 

His loss to the city cannot be estimated. As a prominent white 
citizen said a few days ago, "The city could well have spared 
many of us better than it could have spared him." His influ- 
ence was broadcast. He was greatly loved by the Baptists and 
highly esteemed by all other denominations. Non- professors of 
religion held him in profound reverence for his Christian bear- 
ing and ministerial dignity. There may be ministers of the gos- 
pel more versed in astronomy ; there are some more adept in the 



44 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

use of the languages; there are some more skilled in the sciences 
and arts, but it is our firm, unshaken belief, that no minister 
has ever occupied or does occupy a pulpit, who had or has a more 
generous supply of general useful information, aside from his spi- 
ritual ability, his ability to teach and preach the gospel, (and in 
this we don't consider that he was excelled) than could be attri- 
buted to Rev. Henry Williams, and having this knowledge he 
did not hide it under a bushel. He was high, he was broad, he 
was deep. His constant advice was, "keep a good moral charac- 
ter, read good books, get an education, get property, get money. 
Be producers, not consumers only. Keep the proprieties and 
you'll command respect.'' 

The church edifice, capable of seating 2,000 people, crowded 
to overflowing; the church yard and adjacent streets teeming to 
overflowing with people waiting a glimpse of his bier, and the 
wail of sorrow which ascended in the church as the procession 
neared the church edifice; the baring of heads and lifting of 
hats by white citizens in their private residences and on the 
streets as the hearse drawn by four white horses passed on, was 
a touching tribute to the memory of this great giant in the 
Master's vineyard. Never in the history of Petersburg has such 
a funeral procession been witnessed. A half mile or more 
stretch of vehicles, conveying sympathetic followers to the 
grave. 

He was at one time a member of the Common Council of 
Petersburg, and was a prime mover in the effort to secure col- 
ored teachers in our colored schools. 

His memory cannot be effaced; his influence cannot be elimi- 
nated, nor can darkness dim the light from his radiant 
greatness. 

To summarize: As a Christian, Brother Williams was all 
that the word implies. Charitable in the extreme, though like 
all grand and noble men, he never paraded his charity, nor did 
he seek to give publicity to his acts by having his deeds of alms 
sent to the press. He was invincible as a minister of the 
Gospel, trusty and dutiful as a shepherd, resourceful as a pas- 
tor, unfaltering as a leader, of unerring eye and hand as a pilot, 
expert as a financier, tactful as a disciplinarian, far seeing as a 
Superintendent, and above reproach as a citizen; loyal to the 
country in which he lived, still he was justly and righteously 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 45 

indignant at any injustice or humiliation imposed upon his 
people, while not revengeful; honest to the core, his favorite 
maxim being "Owe no man anything." What a beautiful 
tribute was paid by many merchants with whom he had deal- 
ings when they were questioned as to whether Brother Williams 
was in debt to them. Their replies invariably were: "No; 
Eev. Williams believed in paying." One white citizen re- 
marked: "I had rather have Rev. Williams come down pay- 
ing me a social visit than be examining his account or re- 
ceiving his widow's money." Another said: "He gave his life 
for his people. I have seen him from my office window, in the 
worst weather, on foot, looking after his needy and sick." A 
prominent official said: "Eev. Williams was one of the best 
men that ever walked the streets of Petersburg." Still another: 
"The city's loss cannot be estimated." He has fought a good 
fight; he has kept the faith; he has finished his course, and if 
we be true to the trust Christ left, and practice the teachings, 
and heed the lessons given us by our departed pastor and super- 
intendent, we shall see him in the likeness of Christ, adorned 
with a resplendent crown, studded with stars of great brill- 
iancy, and shall chant the song of the Redeemed with him for- 
ever in a world of happiness and bliss. 

Music — "Asleep in Jesus." 

Paper — By Richard Kennard, Church Clerk. 

REV. HENRY WILLIAMS AS A WORKER AMONG US. 

This Tribute of Respect is offered in rememberance of our 
deceased pastor by one who knew him well, not by hearsay but 
by personal experience and contact, and was with during him all 
of his pastorate of this church. 

Rev. Henry Williams was elected pastor of the Gilfield Bap- 
tist Church the 20th day of November in 1865. At that time 
the membership of the church was 1,250, and during his pastorate 
of 34 years, he added to the church by baptism, by letter, by 
experience and by restoration, more than five thousand souls 
by actual record, and at his death the membership was 2,571, 
as reported to the Bethany Association. He ordained to the 
gospel ministry, members of the church Ephraim Royal, Wesley 
Hill, Robert Grigsby, George Winfield and Pompey Pennister. 



46 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

He also organized branch churches from this church, viz: 
The Providence Church of Prince George County, Va.; the 
Sharon Church of Dinwiddie County, Va.; the Shiloh, Greens- 
ville County Va.; and the Bethesda of Chesterfield County, Va. 
He assisted in organizing many others not connected with this 
church. He was the prime mover in the organization of the 
Virginia Baptist State Convention, he being styled its father. 
He also organized the Hasadiah Baptist Association of South 
Side, Va., and out of said Hasadiah, he organized the Bethany 
Baptist Association of South Side, Va., of which Association he 
was Statistical Secretary for many years. 

His work in our present church edifice was one of the grandest 
which he successfully completed, having purchased land on the 
south side of our property prior to the commencement of the 
building which cost of $1,205. 

With his design as Pastor and Chairman of the Building Com- 
mittee, he began taking down the old building in September, 
1874. With the old material the Chapel was built, in the same 
month and year, in which the church worshipped until the new 
building was completed. Having made the brick with the work 
of the members of the church and others, the building was com- 
menced and completed at the end of the year 1879, and the last 
payment on it made in less than twelve months from its com- 
pletion, which together with the purchase of the land and the 
Chapel cost the sum of ($26,200) twenty -six thousand two hun- 
dred dollars. 

The last of his work was a thorough renovation of the Church 
and Chapel at a cost of $1554.31, and all paid when work was 
completed. He leaves this as a heritage to us in which to worship 
God under our own vine and fig tree. His other work and labor 
for 34 years, for us as a church, in the Baptist denomination, 
and in the cause of Christ in general, in Home and Foreign Mis- 
sions, at home and abroad, and for the cause of his race and 
humanity will never be correctly estimated by any who survive 
him. In connection with our church he also reorganized a Sab- 
bath School which is second to none in the city, and of which he 
was the Superintendent till his death, February 18th, 1900. 

As a citizen, he took great interest in the well being of the 
community, having been a member of the City Council. He 
used his influence for the good government of the city, for col- 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 47 

ored teachers iii the colored schools of the city, and for the free 
delivery of post-office matter to the citizens. He took a great 
interest in the poor of the city, in bettering their condition, be- 
ing at one time Vice-President of the Board of Distribution of 
the city's funds for the poor and for whose relief he was always 
liberal with his own means. 

For the upbuilding of his race as a colored man he had no su- 
perior in his efforts to elevate them, counseling them for good 
feeling and united action with our white citizens for the peace 
and prosperity of the whole community. 

In summing up his general character, I close this tribute by 
saying that with a personal knowledge of him, he was a great 
man, a Christian gentleman in all his bearings, an uncompro- 
mising defender of the truth and an enemy to all wrong doing 
and wickedness. 

Peace be to his sleep until we meet again at the Final Day. 

Kest dear brother from all thy labor, turmoils of life, false 
brethren, and pretended friends, and receive that well earned 
reward. From one that loved him for his virtues. 

Music — "Servant of God, well done," Choir. 

Paper — By Capt. J. A. C. Stevens, Teacher of Class 21, in the 
Sabbath School. 

REV. WILLIAMS, D. D., AS A FRIEND. 

His friendship was most peculiar to himself; of that kind 
that we never find in so-called friends. Never spasmodic or 
fluctuating, but steadfast and true. True friendship is the 
sweetest and most gratifying or in other words satisfactory con- 
necting link in life. It carries an effect most notable upon all 
states and conditions. It relieves our cares, raises our hopes, 
and abates our fears. This friendship at all times improved our 
happiness and abated our misery, by doubling our joys and di- 
viding our griefs. 

Friendship is a sweet attraction of the heart toward the 
merit one may esteem, or the perfection we admire, and pro- 
duces a mutual inclination between two or more persons to pro- 
mote each others interest, knowledge, virtue, and happiness. 
Rev. Williams was never pretentious in his friendship or regards 
for one who might claim this attraction. He was at all times 



48 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

outspoken and bold. To the timid and cautious his friendship 
even spoke words of encouragement, and to the weak it was 
ready under every environment to extend a helping hand, and 
when he, from any cause, thought you too bold, would whisper 
sweet words of caution. Such was his friendship to those who 
valued it. 

He was ready to sympathize with the sorrowing one, and to 
rejoice with those who rejoiced. His friendship was not con- 
fined to any class of society. It went out to those who pros- 
pered, and to those who were in adversity's vale alike. No 
natural boundary line nor rugged mountain ever put a limit to 
its growth. 

If the human soil is watered with the morning and evening 
dews of kindness and affection, there and only there will 
you find that true friendship which Brother Williams cherished, 
cultivated and displayed all through in our midst. 

His friendship was that which delights to enter an abode of 
sorrow and wretchedness, flaunting whithersoever it goes the 
ensign of happiness and peace. It exterminated every poisoned 
thought of envy and spread abroad internally a mind of content- 
ment born of God himself. Only think how it did bud and 
bloom in the pnre rich soil of his noble and self-sacrificing 
heart. One always found in its pressure a sweet atmosphere of 
peace and joy, accompanied with the zephyr of love, pure and 
unadulterated. There is friendship of an hour, of a day, month, 
or a year, but true friendship can only be moulded by the expe- 
rience of time, and for more than a third of a century of culti- 
vation, unsullied by a single word or act places me in a fair posi- 
tion to write of that true friendship existing between us. An 
attractive face, a winning tongue, or the assistance of some 
passer-by is not the permanent test of the union of hearts. You 
need a more substantial proof than any of these. His friend- 
ship was true because he would weep with you in your hours of 
distress, and would reprove you to your face for which others 
were ridiculing and censuring you behind your back. He 
would stand in your defense when all else was secretly aiming 
its weapons (though secretly) at your reputation. 

Prosperity gains friends; it never gained Eev. Williams for 
one moment; adversity tries them; it never found him wanting. 
For friendship is no just scale. Adversity tries them, it never 




John A. C. Stevens, 
President Monument Committee. 




Wm. H. Johnson, Secretary 
Monument Committee. 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D., 49 

found him wanting. For friendship prosperity is no j ust scale, ad- 
versity is the only true balance by which friendship, true friend- 
ship may be weighed. A true and a real friend will accompany 
one not only in prosperity when invited, but in adversity they 
come of their own accord. The disposition which he cultivated 
was that of the genuine Christian, not hypocritical in anything; 
not smiles to-day, frowns tomorrow; not agreeing with you to- 
day, with your enemies on tomorrow. When in your absence had 
you a chain upon his friendship, you might rest assured that he 
was true and steadfast, without much demonstration, unfalter- 
ing and firm. He possessed that quality of friendship which 
exhibited itself at all times, in your absence as well as in your 
presence and made himself solicitous of your welfare and being 
ever ready and willing to give you advice and counsel for good. 
And how could he be otherwise? "For one true to himself can- 
not, will not, be false to God or man." So it was with that 
saintly man at all times. If you saw Eev. Williams in pros- 
perity you would be sure to recognize him in adversity, because 
he was a true friend. 

When sickness caused you to retire from the busy world, he 
traced you to your home and listened with profound attention 
and a sad heart to the telling of your sufferings, and there and 
then administered the balm of consolation to your fainting spirit. 

And when at last the monster, death had burst asunder every 
earthly tie, he would shed a tear upon your grave and lodge the 
dear remembrance of your friendship in his heart. 

The remembrance of his friendship touches me with a pang; 
often I find myself sobbing, wounded with a grief whose balsam 
never grew . 

Our friendship was never much told, it was much more lived. 

His friend, 

J. A. C. Stevens. 

Address by Rev. W. F. Graham, of Richmond, Va. 

Music — Solo, "Our Departed Loved One," by Mrs. Carrie M. 
Campbell. 

Music— "When Shall We Meet Again"— Choir. 

At the close of the exercises subscriptions were given to the 
amount of a hundred and more dollars. 



CHAPTER IV. 



On the 10th of May the Virginia Baptist State Convention 
held its annual session with the Court Street Baptist Church of 
Lynchburg Va. During this session memorial exercises were 
conducted by the convention, and the following article appeared 
in the Christian Organizer of Lynchburg: 

Access to the church on Thursday night after half-past seven, 
was an impossibility. The lower floor, the gallery, the aisles, 
the vestibule were crowded and the streets immediately in front 
of the church, were packed with those who were anxious to get 
inside. 

The were at least 3000 persons present, the occasion being 
memorial services in honor of the late Dr. Henry Williams of 
Petersburg. Bevs. Henry Madison, W. W. Gaines, J. Ander- 
son Taylor, Dr. G. W. Lee, J. B. Smith, Jas. Reiser, and other 
emineut speakers spoke in suitable terms of this eminent man — 
specially so, were the words of Major Willliam H. Johnson and 
Deacon A. Forbes, touching and pathetic. 

Never before in the history of the denomination was a Thurs- 
day evening given over to such a service. That in itself was a 
high tribute to the life and character of Dr. Williams. The 
Convention felt that any evening best suited to the convenience 
of his family and his representatives, would be gladly dedicated 
to that purpose; and such a service as the Convention had on 
Thursday night has never before gone on the records of the Con- 
vention. Our only regret was that Sister Williams could not be 
present to hear the words of highest praise and expressions of 
love and admiration that fell from the lips of the hundreds, yea 
the thousands, who gathered at the Convention. Thursday 
night will long be remembered. 

The following is the poem, composed and set to music, and 
sung by Mrs. Carrie B. Campbell at the Memorial Exercises 
conducted by the church. 



REV, HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 5 I 

IN MEMORY OF REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 

We meet to mourn a loved one dear, 
Who lived and toiled for Jesus here, 

Until the Master bade him rest 
His weary frame upon His breast. 

Though earthly ties be broken here, 
God's endless chain still lingers near; 

And we may work and toil for Him, 
Until we join the link in Heaven. 

A soul has gone to Heaven to rest, 

And with his Saviour ever blessed, 
He'll join in song, around God's throne 

The praises of that heavenly throng. 

REFRAIN. 

Oh, would we have him here again 
In this dark world of sin and shame? 

Nay! God's ordained it otherwise, 
And now he rests in Paradise. 

On Saturday June 9th, 1900, the following poem appeared in 
the Richmond, Va., Planet: 

IN MEMORIAM. 



[Reproduced by Request.] 

(Dedicated to the Memory of the Rev. Henry Williams, Jr., D. D., Late 
Pastor of Gilfield Baptist Church, Petersburg, Va.) 

A prince in the Church of Christ has fallen! 

A warrior worthy of all renown; 
A hero ceased from deeds of valor, 

Hath laid down his cross and taken his crown. 

His voice no longer is heard on the rostrum 

And still is the hand which labored for love; 
The heart which did best for the good of his fellows 

Is still, but his spirit is living above. 

The cause of his Master was ever his burden, 
And none called in vain whom he could release; — 

He held up the cross of his blessed Redeemer, 
And succored the sinner who thirsted for peace. 

Those who best knew him declared that they loved him, 

Because he lived not for himself nor his own, 
The children of Christ were his sisters and brothers, 

For Christ he gave all, for Him lived alone. 



5 2 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

* 

His life was so clean, so pure and so lovely, 

His death was a triumph he died but to live! 
He preached Christ while living, in death still proclaiming 

That Christ and Him only salvation could give. 

O. M. Steward. 

On Wednesday, 18th day of July, 1900, the Bethany Baptist 
Sabbath School Convention, of which Dr. Williams was the 
founder met at Windsor, Va., at which time the following resolu- 
tions were submitted by the Committee on Obituaries, and the 
same were adopted: 

"We feel to comment especially upon the death of Rev. H. 
Williams, D. D., the father of this Convention." 

Whereas, Death has claimed as its victim, Rev. H. Wil- 
liams, D. D., a man, a Christian, a minister of the gospel, a 
champion and staunch defendant of our race, and one who un- 
flinchingly defended the interests and principles of the Baptist 
denomination of which we form apart, and 

Whereas, We, the B. B. S. S. Convention sadly miss his in- 
fluence and counsel, which went so far to place us in a respected 
and honored position among all people, therefore be it 

Resolved 1. That we bow in humble submission to the Father 
of light, who doeth all things well. 

Resolved 2. That on account of his unyielding, unflinching and 
staunch determination to defend Baptist principles and dissemi- 
nate Bible knowledge and his perseverance in so doing; on ac- 
count of the public manifestation of his interests in the spiritual, 
moral, educatonal and financial welfare of his race, he should 
and does fiud an abiding place in our hearts to his memory, which 
shall cause us to move forward to great deeds, at the same time 
elevating those with whom we come in contact to the highest 
plane of Christian citizenship. 

Resolved 8. That we the B. B. S. S. Convention memorialize 
the deeds of Rev. H. Williams, D. D., as an act of respect to 
his memory. 

W. H. Johnson, Chairman, S. Reed, 
H. Madison, E. C. Allison. 

Samuel Reed, Alethia L. King, 

I. Cross, Gertrude Turner, 

J. S. Branch, Annie O. King, 

Committee. 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 53 

After the adoption of the resolutions, a collection was lifted 
for the monument fund amounting to $6.25. 

The interest in the erection of a monument to Dr. Williams 
seemed so wide-spread, aud the enthusiasm among friends, not 
only of Petersburg, but of other cities appeared of such magni- 
tude, that on Monday night, (Jth of August, the church decided 
to authorize some one to visit some of the friends in northern 
cities and to give any one who desired, the privilege of subscrib- 
ing. The church elected Win. H. Johnson to discharge 
that duty, and on the 17th of August he left Petersburg in 
obedience to the wishes of the church. The cities of Baltimore, 
Md., Newark, N. J., New York and Brooklyn, N. Y., were 
visited, the results of which are shown in list in back of this 
volume. On this trip, only the churches which were considered 
to have a number of former Petersburg people, and many who 
had been members of the Gilfield Baptist Church at some time, 
were visited. 

In September the regular annual meeting of the Bethany Bap- 
tist Association of Virginia was held at Franklyn, Va. As the 
Association had decided to hold memorial services in honor of 
Dr. Williams at this sitting, James M. Wilkersou was elected 
by the church as her representative in said exercises, and the 
following paper was read by him : 

IN MEMOEIAM. 

Brother Moderator, Brethren mid Sisters. 

It is with some regret and yet with pleasure that I stand 
in your presence to-day. It is with regret because I stand to 
pay a sad tribute of respect to the memory of one of the noblest, 
staunchest, aud truest friends the Baptist denomination of this 
country has ever known, Bev. Henry Williams, D. D. 

It is with pleasure because your humble servant who has been 
chosen to prepare this paper is proud to say that he was trained 
from the cradle to manhood under his religious training. 

In attempting to read these few lines in memoriam of the good 
and saintly man, I trust you do not anticipate a display of rhe- 
torical, oratorical or poetical style or beauty, but these words 
come from the heart of one who loved him, and shall ever de- 
plore his demise and revere his memory. 



54 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

It has been said by one, "To live in hearts we leave behind is 
not to die." Then he shall not soon die, for the works he 
wrought in our midst shall ever stand as living monuments to 
perpetuate his memory. 

When we think of the sadness and grief that filled our hearts 
when the sad tidings were borne from home to home on that se- 
rene Sabbath afternoon, February 18, 1900, that the spirit of 
our leader had flown to its maker, and we listened to the sobs, 
wails and lamentations of thousands, regardless of denomination, 
as all that was mortal of him was being borne into that sacred 
edifice, which he by his energy, devotion, and love had erected, 
we could but say as was said at the tomb of Lazarus, when the 
people beholding the grief of Jesus, said, "Behold how He loved 
him." And I again recall to your minds that it was he who at 
your last convention prayed the closing prayer invokiug the grace 
of Almighty God upon you. 

Can we ever forget this peerless, noble, Christian man, whose 
dignified, Christian bearing won for him the respect of all with 
whom he came in contact? 

As a denominationalist, he was a mighty Gibraltar, who stood 
the huge waves of public scathing and rebukes. He was a Bap- 
tist first, last, and always, and defended its cause in a manner 
that evoked the plaudits of his enemies. 

His faith in his denomination was not of the kind that shrinks 
from any foe, but he was ever on the alert to contradict or re- 
fute any argument promulgated against the Baptist doctrine or 
its cause. 

Some of you may say that others have done as much. But 
why were the utterances of Rev. Henry Williams more effective 
and productive of better results than those of some other mini- 
sters of the Gospel? It was because his was a life of examples 
as well as precepts. 

He did not urge upon others to do that which he did not prac- 
tice himself, and alas, my hearers, our lives are but a barren 
waste and our words are but as tinkling cymbals when they do 
not accord with our actions. 

Too often we keenly feel the pain of seeing some sinner point 
his finger at a minister of the Gospel and hear him exclaim as 
he passes along, U I have no confidence in that man as a minister 
of the Gospel, for he is guilty of doing that which I would not 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 55 

do, and that which he daily preaches against." What influence 
have your words over such a man when you belie your words by 
your actions'? 

Not so with him whom I stand in your presence to speak of 
to-day. You who knew him knew that he was characterized by 
his Christian, gentlemanly bearing, and that he set a high stand- 
ard, and that his character was above reproach. 

"We live in deeds, not years; in thoughts, not breaths, 
In feelings, not in figures on a dial. 
We should count time by heart throbs, 

He most lives 
Who thinks most, feels the noblest, acts the best. 

The example he has left behind is worthy of emulation by all 
who wish to follow Christ, and in the hearts of his grief-stricken 
members is recorded worth, which shall never die, but shall in- 
fluence them in their noble resolve to carry on the work he has 
left in our charge and which we believe is still guided by his un- 
seen but saintly hand. 

It was often he stood in your midst at your annual gatherings, 
and as a faithful pilot who never sleeps while at his post of duty, 
but watches and guides his ship, he warned you of the huge bil- 
lows that were sometimes mountains high; of shoals and sand- 
bars, and the shallows, but now he is silent in death, but although 
silent, his life stauds out as the beacon light or light-house, that 
you may guide your little bark safely across the waves of sin, 
and seas of temptation and deceit which you are sure to en- 
counter in your path to the haven of rest. We would ask your 
prayers in behalf of his flock, that we may ever stand fast in the 
principles he taught us, and that grievous wolves come not 
among us and devour the flock, and to cause us to 

"So live that when our summons comes to join 
The innumerable caravan that moves 
To that mystic realm, where each shall take 
His chamber in the silent halls of death, 
We go not like the quarry-slave at night, 
Scourged to his dungeon, but sustained and soothed 
By an unfaltering trust, approach our grave 
Like one who wraps the drapery of his couch 
About him, and lies down to pleasant dreams." 

The following poem was written by Miss Alice Cross, of South 

Quay, Va.: 



56 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

IN MEMORY OF REV. H. WILLIAMS, D. D. 

Thou hast left us our father, 

And thy work is done at last, 
And thy short existence with us, 

Now's essential with the past. 

How we miss thee our father, 

We can never, never tell; 
And we will forget thee never, 

Thou has played thy part so well. 

We do miss thee our father, 

'Round thy monument we weep; 
How long wilt thou sleep "calm sleeper 

And when wilt thou wake from sleep?" 

Ah! We miss thy loving teachings, 

Thy good counsel and advice; 
Thy sweet smiles and kingly greetings 

Not one of us can price. 

Hast thou left us our father, 

Never to return again? 
We have sighed and sorrowed for thee, 

We have called thee, but in vain. 

Have we lost thee our father? 

We have searched thee but in vain; 
We have lost thee, but we think that 

It is thy eternal gain. 

Thou hast truly left us dear one, 

But thy promise we implore; 
When we cross the Jordan River, 

Meet us on the other shore. 

Thou hast had thy sorrow father; 

Thou hast borne it, it is o'er. 
We still sailing on the river 

Meet us "when our voyage is over." 

Glad are we that thou hast left us, 

In thy Father's arms now sleep; 
We must wait a little longer, 

In this world to toil and weep. 

Then "sleep on" and on "beloved" 

Sleep, sleep well and take thy rest," 
And some sweet day may we meet thee 

In that sweet land of the blest. 

Contributed to the memory of Rev. H. Williams, D. D., by M. Alice 
Cross, one that he held on his knee when a babe, and who loved and 
reverenced him devotedly. 

He was a self-sacrificing, lovable, peacable, gentle, noble, generous and 
devoted Christ-like father, friend, and brother to his (the colored) race. 



CHAPTER V. 

It is a remarkable fact, that from March to November, the 
first Sabbath of each mouth, which day was set apart for col- 
lections for the monument fund was marked by pleasantness and 
absence of rain. 

On Saturday, 3rd of November, the city was visited by an un- 
usually raw day, a strong northeaster being on hand; the rain 
pouring steadily till Sabbath morning. 

Till eleven o'clock the sun was hidden from view and the 
clouds gave evidence of discomfort and gloom. The church, in 
numbers was small, and all felt despondent as the day had been 
set apart for an unprecedented grand rally. 

About 11:30 the sun peeped from his hiding place, and his 
rays burst forth in all their glory and the congregation increased 
in numbers. After the sermon was preached, the theme of 
which was love. President Jas. H. Johnston of the V. N. and C. 
I. delivered one of the most feeling, touching, sympathetic eulo- 
gies on Dr. Williams from the before mentioned subject, love, 
that it has been the lot of the church to hear. In his remarks 
he pictured to the church the love of Dr. Williams. How he 
loved the church; how he loved his race; how he lived with his 
people, in his people, for his people; how he gave his life for his 
people in the service of the Master. It was a paragon of elo- 
quence, delivered in language so rich, in sentences so heart 
touching, that for a time he seemed lost in a beautiful halo of 
the deepest sincerity and affection while the fountains of tears 
of many eyes overflowed. After his masterly effort a congrega- 
tional collection was lifted, which, with the contributions, 
amounted to two hundred and ninety-three dollars. 

Towards the end of winter the Committee was notified that the 
monument was ready for erection, and on Tuesday February 
18th, 1900, the Committee assembled and decided to have the 
unveiling take place on Thursday April 18th, 2 o'clock P. M. 
In selecting an orator for the occasion, the Committee decided 
to invite Dr. W. A. Creditt, of the Cherry Street Baptist 
Church, Philadelphia, Penu., to deliver the oration, having 
Dr. Geo. W. Lee, of Washington, D. C, as alternate. Dr. 



58 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

Creditt wrote a very feeling reply stating that on account of ill- 
ness he would have to decline the invitation. -Writing to Dr. 
Lee, we received a reply statiug that he would be on hand. The 
following letter speaks for itself: 

Philadelphia, -Pa., February 26, 1901. 

Me. Wm. H. Johnson. 

My Dear Sir: I regret very much the delay in answering 
your letter and hope that it may not cause any inconvenience. 

You directed the letter to the church, and because of my ab- 
sence I did not receive it until Sunday. Sickness has kept me 
from many of my services. 

Permit me to thank you and the committee for the honor you 
have conferred. Nothing could please me more than to accept 
your kind iuvitation. Ill health, however, compels me to de- 
prive myself of the pleasure you offer. For nearly two months 
I have been confined to the house. The nature of my illness is 
such that I am forbidden to do much public speaking. I have 
only partially assumed my pulpit duties. I have also been 
compelled to cancel a number of important engagements. I would 
like so much to say I would be with you but I fear my health. 

A monument to a minister of the Gospel is the noblest act a 
loving people can bestow upon the memory of a worthy pastor. 
He who sought to be cherished in your hearts shall have a 
standing monument in your midst. May God be praised. Dr. 
Williams was a noble soul, I knew him well. I revered him for 
his venerable appearance; I honored him for his ability; I ad- 
dored him for his gentle, loving manner; I loved him for the 
service he rendered and shall ever remember him for the lasting 
impressions of good he made upon my life. 

Please express my regret to your worthy committee who 
kindly extended me this honor. My poor health is my only 
apology. Yours "In His Name," 

Wm. A. Creditt. 

In the Bethany Baptist Association which convened at Frank- 
lin Va., September, 1900, Dr. J. E. Jones of Richmond, Va., 
paid this glowing tribute to Dr. Williams: 

"It is with sadness and great depression of spirit that I have 
to speak on this occasion. My mind goes back 32 years, at which 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 59 

time I listened to a sermon preached by him. The text was, 
"God is love." The sermon was terse, pointed, sententious. He 
showed the expression of love through the incarnation of His Son. 
Dr. Williams was an ideal preacher, because he had an ideal life. 
Adverse to others iu that he had a unique scholarly bearing more 
than was accredited to him. He was profound. Those who 
question it, search his writings. Coming to the Bible he was a 
deep, high, broad and able minister; because he was a regenera- 
ted man, meaning all that regeneration means. He was a man 
called of God. I heard him 32 years ago and he made me shout. 
He showed that he was a great man, who had a great soul and 
practiced what he preached. Many preach but caunot pastor. 
He was a true pastor. He knew how to laud over God's heritage. 
He was liberal in views and means. Tall, dignified, he magni- 
fied his office. He wished to leave chat impression of loyalty. 
God bless his memory and keep it green." 



CHAPTER VI. 

Y\ /ednesday afternoon and evening, 17th of April, 1901, 
* the Weather Bureau was consulted by hundreds of people 
in Petersburg, and many were the downcast looks and dejected 
countenances when rain was seen predicted for Thursday, the 
18th. The morning of the 18th dawned cloudy, raw and any 
way but inspiring, but as the King of the day wended his silent 
way across the heavens, the mists began to roll away and the 
beautiful blue canopy overhead gave token of a lovely clay sent 
by an Omnipotent God in graciousness. At 10 o'clock persons 
began wending their way to the cemetery to witness the unveil- 
ing of the monument which had been erected to the memory of 
Dr. Williams. No band of music, no parade of civic societies 
or other organizations were on hand to augment the crowd for 
the occasion, but silently, individuals wended their steps to the 
grounds to pay their homage of respect and devotion to their 
sleeping loved one. As the hour hand of the watch indicated 
the hour of two, the hour designated for the beginning of the 
ceremonies, remembering Dr. Williams' idea of punctuality, the 
Chairman called the audience to order. On the stand which had 
been erected for the occasion were Dr. Williams' niece and 
others connected with the family, the Monument Committee, the 
Finance Committee, the Trustees of the Gilfield Baptist Church, 
the Deacons, the Becordiug Committee, Sabbath School teachers, 
the Choir, and invited ministers of the Gospel, his widow on 
account of ill health remaining in her carriage. The following 
program was rendered amid a respectful, solemn silence, every- 
body being desirous of catching every word that fell from the 
lips of the different speakers. On account of circumstances be- 
yond his control, Dr. Lee was unable to be present, and Dr. W. 
F. Graham of Richmond, Va , was the orator of the occasion. 

PROGRAM. 

Singing, Doxology . 

Invocation, Rev. Henry Madison. 

Singing, — "Asleep in Jesus, blessed sleep," 

By the Gilfield Baptist Church Choir. 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 6 1 

Remarks, .... By the Chairman of the Monument Committee, 

< 'apt. J. A. C. Stevens. 

History, .... By the Secretary of the Monument Committee. 

Maj. Wm. H. Johnson. 

Unveiling, By Eunice Robinson and Carrie Rawlings. 

Oration, By Dr. W. F. Graham, Richmond, Va. 

Address, By Dr. George B. Howard, Petersburg, Va. 

Singing — "Servant of God, well done, By the Choir. 

General Remarks: — 

Benediction. 



THE SECRETARY'S REPORT ON HISTORY. 

Mr. President, Members of Committees, Church, Sabbath 
School and Friends; On February 18th, 1900, after a few days 
of illness, Rev. Henry Williams, D. D., till then our pastor and 
superintendent, passed away from labor to a well earned, ever 
enduring reward. The Gilfield Baptist Church and School, 
jointly, appointed a Monument Committee to make arrangements 
for the erection of a granite monument to his memory, and as 
secretary of that committee, I submit the following report: 

The monument Committee having asked for bids on a monu- 
ment, having previously examined designs, met on Thursday 
the 22ud of March, 1900, to receive such as were presented. 
Bids from Messrs. Chas. M. Walsh and Burns and Campbell 
were opened, but neither being satisfactory, they were rejected. 
March 26th the committee again asaembled and opened bids. 
Mr. Walsh submitted a bid of $1,410 which being the more sa- 
tisfactory of the two which were presented, was accepted and 
the contract awarded him. The contract was drawn up for a 
monument of Virginia gray granite, to be not less than 15 feet 
7 inches in height, otherwise in proportion; foundation to be 6 
feet square and five feet deep; bottom base, 6 feet square; second 
base, 4 feet 10 inches square; third base, 4 feet 10 inches square; 
fourth base, 4 feet 3 inches square; die, 2 feet 10 inches square, 
with 100 inscription letters; cap, 4 feet square with letters 
.'H. W." in monogram; urn, 1 foot 6 inches in diameter and 3 
feet 4 inches high; columns, 3 feet long, 8 inches square at larg- 
est point. 



62 



SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 



The contract further stipulated that 75% of the total amount 
was to be paid as the work progressed, and the remaining 25% 
to be paid upon the completion and acceptance of the work. The 
preliminaries having been settled, active work was begun, and 
as bills were presented, payments were made. Sabbath Day, 
March the 18th, the first collection was lifted amounting to 
$15,25. Subsequent collections were lifted with the following 
results: 



April 1st, 
May 6th, 
June, 4th, 
July 1st, 
July 8th, 
August 5th, 
September 2nd, 
October 5th, 
October 7th, 
November 4th, 
November 25th, 
December 23rd, 
January 27th, 
February 24th, 
March 24th, 
April 



1900, $100 99 

" 108 92 

" 71 10 

" 70 95 

" 17 61 

" 101 27 

" 60 17 

" 35 35 

" 154 91 

" 315 98 






L901, 



a 



132 


35 


67 


06 


138 


95 


76 


12 


74 


27 


32 


15 



Total $1575 55 



DISBURSEMENTS. 



Aug. 15th, 1900, to Mr. C. M. Walsh on Monument. .$ 211 50 



Oct. 5th, ' 


t tt 


.< 


it it 


tt 


tt n 


. . 345 00 


Oct. 8th, 


I It 


tt 


tt a 


i t 


a a 


78 00 


Nov. 8th, 


i a 


1 1 


a a 


1 1 


tt it 


. . 310 20 


Jan. 23rd, 


t a 


1 1 


it a 


tt 


a a 


. . 140 50 


Feb. 2nd, 


t it 


1 1 


a it 


tt 


a a 


. 183 30 


Feb. 2nd. 


It U 


a 


it a 


a 


to 590 extra let. 


70 80 


April 18th, 


a it a it tt it 
amount on Monument 


on Monument . . 
proper 


. .$ 141 50 


Total 


..$1480 80 



The receipt for which is in our possession. 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 6$ 
DISBURSEMENTS CONTINUED. 

July 1st, 1900 to publishing purposes $ 6 60 

Aug. 10th, " " trip of one month's duration to New- 
ark, Baltimore and New York by the Sect'y .... 20 00 

April 15th, to Programs and tickets ... 6 25 

" " " Stationery and postage 1 25 



" " " C.R.Rees, photos of Mon. and Church, 2 00 



" 18th, " Turfing the Monument Square 7 00 

" " " Rev. R. H. Bowling, to expenses 5 00 

" " " Mrs. Eliza Dre wry for board for Minis- 
ters 2 75 

April 18th, to Deacon Forbes for stand 22 65 

" " " Jas. M. Wilkerson for 2 carriages ... . 5 50 

" " '• Postage and paper 52 

Making a grand total of $1566 32 

all of which has been paid and receipts are in our hands. 

Respectfully, 

W. H. Johnson, Secretary. 

After the rendition of the program special, the ceremonies 
closed with a masterly, eloquent oration by Dr. R. H. Bowling 
of Norfolk, Va., who was followed bv Rev. C. B. W. Gordon of 

7 7 v 

Petersburg, Va. The benediction was announced by Rev. J. W. 
Johnson of Petersburg, when the crowd which had respectfully 
and patiently braved the discomforts of a three or more hours of 
standing, quietly dispersed. Thus ended the work and cere- 
monies incident to the death of Rev. Henry Williams, D. D., 
one of the most remarkable men and ministers of the Gospel the 
world has produced. 

The following letters accompanied money donated by societies: 

To the GUfield Baptist Church of Petersburg, Va. 

Dear Friends — In consideration of the enduring and in- 
calculable devotion to, and interest in our denomination, our 
race, and mankind generally, as manifested by the late Rev. 
Henry Williams, D. D., as a minister of the Gospel, we the 
Sisters of Friendship and Love Society, weak in numbers, but 
strong in accord with the scriptural injunction; "Let the elders 
that rule well be counted worthy of double honor," feel that we 



64 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

will not only merit the approval of, but obtain the sanction of 
the All- Wise Creator by aiding in the perpetuation of the mem- 
ory of that Saint of God. We therefore donate the sum of $10 
to the erection of a monument to his memory, and pray for the 
ultimate success of the undertaking. 

Malinda Kerr Johnson, Pres. 

Nannie Brewer Johnson, Sec'y. 

Petersburg, Va., January 7, 1901. 

By unanimous vote of the Sisters of Useful Society, we donate 
ten ($10) dollars to the Monument Fund, to the memory of our 
late pastor, Rev. Henry Williams. May God bless your efforts 
and we hope you success. 

By order of the board. Clarissa Green, Pres. 

C. C. McKenzie, Sec" 1 1). 

Office of St. Joseph Lodge, No. 1382, 
G. U. O. of O. F. 
Petersburg, Va., January 21st, 1901. 

We, the members of the above named Lodge have always ad- 
mired the Christian bearing and the culture and refinement that 
Rev. Henry Williams always advocated among us as a race. His 
advices were always to do all the good for each other we could, 
and he proved his sayings by taking the leadership in setting 
those principles before us as people by precept, word and deed. 
And we do here in our regular meeting, now in session, donate 
the sum of five ($5.00) dollars to his monument to perpetuate his 
name among us under the Links of Friendship, Love and Truth. 

By order of the Lodge and under its seal. 

T. S. Hamlin, N. G. 
W. A. Bragg, Secretary. 

Petersburg, Va, November «24th, 1900. 

By unanimous vote the Daughters of Independence Society 

donate $15 to the monument of our Dear Brother, Rev. Henry 

Williams. We feel our loss is but his gain. May God bless 

you efforts and may they be crowned with success. 

By order of the Board. 

C. C. McKenzie, Secretary. 

A. E. Clarke, President. 




Henry Johnson, Treasurer 
Monument Committee. 




Alexander Forbes, 
Senior Deacon. 



rev. henry williams, d. 1). 65 

Office of Household of Ruth, No. 71. 
G. U.O. ofO. F. 
Petersburg, Va., January 23d, 1901. 

We, the inmates of the above named household, through the 
esteem for the Christian virtue of Rev. Henry Williams, whose 
career as a pastor in this city was un equaled by any in the State; 
whose walks in life were always straightforward and his pur- 
poses steadfast in the path of duty to his God and his neighbor, 
do here, in our regular meeting assembled, donate the sum of 
five ($5.00) to his monument, to perpetuate his name among us 
under the Links of Peace, Happiness and Prosperity. 
By order of the Household. 

Emma J. Jones, R. N. G. 
R. H. Cooley, M. N. G. 
W. A. Bragg, W. R. 

February 24, 1901. 

At a regular meeting of the Temperance Society connected 
with the Gilfield Baptist Church, the Society voted to donate 
ten dollars ($10) toward the monument to be erected in memory 
of their Corresponding Secretary, Rev. H. Williams. While 
looking out for the good of his flock, he saw the harm intemper- 
ance was doing among his people, and organized the Temperance 
Society in the Church. He loved the temperance cause, and de- 
nounced intemperance in all its phases. 

Richard Cosby, Pres. 
Julia Jordan, Sec'y. 

United Sons of Morning Lodge, No. 1334, G. U. O. O. F. 

Petersburg, Va., February 24, 1901. 
To the Officers and Members of the Gilfield Baptist Church — Greeting: 
In token of our respect and esteem for the late pastor, 
Rev. Dr. Henry Williams, of your church, we do hereby sub- 
scribe the sum of $5.00 to the monumental funds, and we have 
also appointed Bro. Thomas E. Cox committee to forward the 
same. Done by order of the Lodge: 

John W. Johns, N. G. 
Joseph E. Butcher, P. S. 

5 



66 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

Petersburg, Va., February 8, 1901. 

We the members of Noah Lodge, 1367, G. U. O. of O. F., at 
our regular monthly meeting held on the above date, do here in 
estimation of one who has devoted his energies among the people 
of this city, and has desired to do whatever he could that would 
benefit them, subscribe to his monument. He was not like one 
read of who did not associate with his race, but cringed under 
those who socially did not want him. We read that this man 
was desirous of haviug a surgeon let out his negro blood and insert 
that of some other race. But Dr. Williams was proud of his 
race; proud of his negro blood, and labored 34 years in Peters- 
burg for the elevation of his people. He was looked upon by 
both black and white as a representative man, honored and re- 
spected by all. The monument to be erected to his memory will 
be in memory of a hero, a man of strict Christian qualities, and 
we desire our unborn children to know of him when we have 
passed away. We donate $2 to have his name perpetuated 
among us. 

Drewry Batts, JV. G. 

E. W. Wood, Secretary. 

Gilfield Baptist Church, December 23d, 1900. 

We, the members of Gilfield Baptist Sabbath School Mission- 
ary Society, give to the raising of a monument over our dear and 
beloved Superintendent and member the sum of $5; wishing that 
we could give more, but being small in number, we are prevent- 
ed from so doing. F. Wilkerson, President. 

Ida K. Bell, Secretary. 

Petersburg, Va., May 1st, 1901. 

To the Gilfield Baptist Church, Sunday School and Friends generally. 

Please allow me through this medium to express to you 
my gratitude for the great respect, esteem and love, exhibited by 
yourselves towards my departed husband, and for your love and 
high regard for me in erecting a lasting granite monument of 
beauty, magnificence and elegance to his memory and making it 
possible for me to witness its unveiling amid such imposing cere- 
monies. 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 6j 

Words cannot express my thanks, but there is a place in my 
heart for you which will never be held by others, and a deep 
sense of gratitude towards you will ever linger in my heart, ac- 
companied by an unceasing prayer for your prosperity and hap- 
piness as a Church, as a Sabbath School, as individuals. 

Yours in Christ, Madeline Williams, 

Peg ram Street. 

Louisville, Ky., April 26th, 1901. 

To the Monument Committees and Members of Giljield Baptist Church. 
Words cannot express our deep and sincere appreciation 
and gratitude for the high tribute of respect paid to our brother, 
Rev. Henry Williams, in erecting the haudsome monument to 
his memory. 

Your appreciation is doubly shown in the despatch with which 
you have accomplished this noble purpose. 

We are proud, too, that he himself has erected a monument 
that time and years cannot reduce, in the hearts of a people of 
whom he was justly proud. 

His church and members, their loyalty and zeal were his con- 
stant joy and pride. 

He carried to his grave a heart full of love and sympathy for 
those with whom he spent years of toil, of pleasure, of endeavor 
for good. 

Again we thank you most sincerely that you stood by him ''in 
the heat of the day," and "lifted up his arms" till the battle 
was o'er; and now that he has fallen amid "the bearded grain" 
of the harvest, you still manifest your unbounded love and re- 
spect for him in the presentation of this grand monument. 

It shall not only remind us that he was loved by the people; 
but it shall also remind us of the goodness of heart and the 
loyalty and love of a good people. 

We regret, many fold, our inability to be with you on the oc- 
casion of the unveiling ceremonies; but it was an utter impossi- 
bility. 

My sister, daughter and niece join me in these expressions. 

With the best wishes for your success, individually and collec- 
tively. Your sister in Christ, Mrs. E. Conrad, 

1112 TV. Walnut Street, Louisville, Ky. 

Lottie E. Williams, 

Erminie G. Harris, 

Daisy E. Conrad. 



68 SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

EEPOETS OF RECORDERS. 

Avery, Bessie D. Miss $ 67 95 

Bell, Ida K. Miss 107 75 

Blick, Emily Miss 109 10 

James, Catharine Miss 82 05 

Johnson, Nannie Mrs 157 54 

Stevens, Mattie Mrs 22 30 

Smith, Madeline Miss 96 70 

Tabb, Lizzie B. Miss 114 61 

Williamson, Rachael Miss 82 05 

REPORTS OF FINANCE COMMITTEE. 

Archer, Nellie Miss $ 

Baldwin, Burwell 3 60 

Brooks, Edward . 1 75 

Carter, Emma J. Miss 8 20 

Cosby, Diehard Deacon 7 80 

Davis, John H 

Drewry, Emmett 

Epps, Mary Miss 7 00 

Evans, Lizzie Miss 3 00 

Farley, Richard Sr 3 25 

Farley, Sarah Miss 5 35 

Fisher, Jennie Mrs 6 45 

Goffney, Mary L. Mrs 16 50 

Hall, Fannie Miss 2 75 

Hargraves, James Deacon, 5 85 

Hawks, Richard* ° 

Hill, Corinne Miss 4 25 

Jackson, Andrew ° 

James, Charles 3 35 

Johnson, Lucretia C. Mrs 13 00 

Jones, John 4 40 

Matthews, Alice Mrs 13 25 

Peters, Rebecca Mrs 20 05 

Pryor, Indie A. Miss 20 52 

Robinson, Sophronia Mrs 7 35 

Shaw, Robert Deacon 

Spratley, Wm. M 25 27 

Smith, Richard 1 10 

Taylor, Alfred 

Wilkerson, Fannie Mrs 17 75 

Wood, Edward 2 30 

Word, Nazareue Miss 15 30 

Johnson, Wm. H., from friends north 53 34 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 69 
EEPOETS OF CLUBS. 

Club led by Booker, Fannie Mrs $ 5 60 

" " " Coleman, Nellie Mrs 21 00 

" " " Cosby, Sarah Mrs 14 50 

" " " Dabney, Julia Mrs. . . ; 2 85 

" " " Dodson, Mary Miss 2 00 

" " " Jackson, Nancy R. Mrs 5 20 

" " " Johnson, Nannie B. Mrs 33 35 

" " " Matthews, Frederick 15 45 

" " " Penister, Eleanor Mrs 12 20 

" " " Washington, Lavinia Mrs 15 00 

EEPOET OF WM. H. JOHNSON ON TEIP. 

Alexander, Kesiah, Baltimore, Md $ 25 

Allison, Maria, New York 1 00 

Banks, Alice, Newark, N.J. , 1 00 

Banks, W. H., Brooklyn 25 

Bannister, Henry, Baltimore, Md., 1 00 

Bannister, Madeline, Baltimore, Md., 1 00 

Bannister, Nettie, Baltimore, Md., 5 00 

Bell, Mildred, Baltimore, Md., 1 00 

Bowie, Ella, New York 50 

Butler, Mary, New York - • • 50 

Chaplin, Thomas, Brooklyn 25 

Creasy, Alice, Brooklyn ••.... 10 

Devan, Mrs., Baltimore, Md., 25 

Ferguson, Flora, New York 1 00 

Harris, George, Brooklyn 1 00 

Hicks, William, Baltimore, Md., 50 

Jones, Charity, New York 1 00 

Jones, Robt. H., Br., New York 1 00 

Jones, Robt. H. Jr., New York 1 00 

Jones, Mary, Baltimore, Md., 25 

Jones, Lettie Ann, Brooklyn 1 00 

Kirke, Mary Agnes, New York 1 00 

Mabry, Lucinda, Brooklyn l 00 

Payne, Sarah, Brooklyn 

Swann, Samuel Dea., New York ] 00 

$ 53 34 

Receipts by Wm. H. Johnson from pastors, churches and secular or- 
ganizations in Newark, Baltimore, New York and Brooklyn will be 
found under their heads. 



25 00 


10 00 


5 00 


5 00 


5 00 


5 00 


2 00 



JO SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 

CONTRIBUTIONS. 
RELIGIOUS BODIES, PETERSBURG, VA. 

Gilfield Baptist School, Wm. H. Johnson, Supt., Robt. J. Jones, 

Secretary ■ • ■ $ 100 00 

Gilfield Baptist Home Mission Daughters, Julian Jordan, Pres., 

Nannie B. Johnson, Secretary ... 

Gilfield Baptist Home Mission Sons, Frank Wilkerson, Pres., 

Richard Keunard, Secretary 

Gilfield Baptist Sabbath School Missionary Society, Frank M. 

Wilkerson, Pres., Ida K. Bell, Secretary 

Gilfield Baptist Foreign Mission Society 

Oak Street A. M. E. Z. Church, Rev. P. R. Anderson. Pastor . 

Oak Street A. M. E. Z. Sabbath School 

Zion Baptist Church, Rev. C. W. McCall, Pastor 

SECULAR. 

Gilfield Baptist Church Habiliment Society, Harriett McCray, 

President 5 00 

Gilfield Baptist Temperance Society, Richard Cosby, President, 

Julian Jordan, Secretary 

Children's Aid Society, Kate B. Jackson, President, 

Sisters of Friendship and Love, Maliuda K. Johnson, President, 

Nannie B. Johnson, Secretary . . 

Daughters of Independence, Ann E. Clark, President, C. C. 

McKenzie, Secretary ... ... 

Daughters of Useful, Clarissa Green, President, C C. McKenzie, 

Secretary 

Household of Ruth, No. 71, G. U. O. of O. F.; Emma J. Jones, 

R. N. S., R. H. Cooley, M. N. G.; Wm. A. Bragg, W. R. . 
Noah Lodge, No. 1367, G. U. O. of O. F., Drewry Batts, N. G., 

Edward Wood, P. S 

St. Joseph Lodge, No. 1382, G. U. O. of O. F., T. S. Hamlin, N. 

G., W. A. Bragg, P. S 

United Sons of the Morning Lodge, No. 1334, G. U. O. of O. F., 

John Jones, N. G., Jos. Butcher, PS 

VIRGINIA. 

Bethany Baptist S. S. Convention, E. C.Allison, President . . $ 6 25 
Big Bethel Baptist Church, San Marino, Rev. H. Madison, 

Pastor 5 00 

Bethany Baptist Association 6 17 

First Baptist Church, Bermuda Hundreds, Rev. Miles Walker, 

Pastor . 2 00 

First Baptist Church, Waverly, Rev. John Jones, Pastor ... 4 00 
Bethlehem Baptist Church, Port Royal, Va., Rev. J. H. A. 

Cyrus, Pastor 1-58 



10 00 


5 00 


10 00 


15 00 


10 00 


5 00 


2 00 


5 00 


5 00 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 7 1 
BALTIMORE, MD. 

First Baptist Church, Rev. J. C. Allen, Pastor $ 1 (in 

Enon Baptist Church, Rev. Jones Watkins, Pastor 3 31 

Macedonia Baptist Church, Rev. A. B. Callis, Pastor 2 00 

NEWARK, N. J. 

Bethany Baptist Church, Rev. V. P. Chamberlain, Pastor ... $ 5 89 
Coachman's Mutual Aid Benefit Society, David White, Pres., 

Wm. A. Parker, Secretary 5 00 

NEW YORK. 

Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Dr. C. T. Walker, Pastor 1104 

MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL. 

Dr. George B. Howard, Petersburg, Va., $ 5 00 

Rev. P. R. Anderson, " " 1 00 

" R. H. Cooley, " " 2 00 

" P. R. Berry, " " 20 

" T D. Manson, " " 1 00 

" T. J. Jones, Lynchburg, Va , 1 00 

" B. F. Fox, Salem, Va., 50 

" Henry Madison, San Marino, Va., 1 25 

Dr. Harvey Johnson, Baltimore, Md., 1 00 

" W T. Dixon, Brooklyn, N. Y., 1 00 

PRESIDENTS OF COLLEGES. 

President Jas. H Johnston, V. N. and C. I $ 5 00 

" G. W. Hayes, Lynchburg, Seminary • 5 00 

CONTRIBUTORS AND CONTRIBUTIONS. 

Abbey, Polly $ 10 Allen, Nannie 10 

Adams, Nancy, Jones St. 2 00 Allen, Sarah 15 

Adams, Evelyn 25 Allen, Lizzie 1 00 

Adams, Ethel 25 Alexander, Grace A. 10 

Adkins, Junius 1 50 Alexauder, C. R., Dr. 50 

Alfrieud, Emma 35 Alexander, Chas. M. 05 

Alfriend, Abram 25 Alexander, Clarence 10 

Alley, C. C. 2 50 Alexander, Hugo 05 

Algood, E. P. 50 Alexander, Royall 10 

Allen, James H., Oak St. 50 Alexander, Wm., Farmer St. 2 00 
Allen, Delia, 108 St. Luke St. 25 Alexander, Laura, Farmer St. 1 00 



72 



SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 



Alexander, Floyd 


05 


Anderson, Mrs., Pegraui St. 


1 00 


Anderson, Fannie 


10 


Anderson, Fannie E. 


10 


Anderson, Elisa 


1 00 


Anderson, Grace 


05 


Anonymous 


4 59 


Andrews, Wm. 


10 


Archer, Nellie 


50 


Archer, Estelle 


25 


Archer, Virginia, Third St. 


50 


Arthur, Angelina 


1 00 


Avant, Julia 


05 


Avant, S. J. 


05 


Avery, Bessie D., South St. 


2 00 


Avery, Arthur, South St. 


10 


Avery, Mamie, South St. 


25 


Bailey, Martha, N. Y. 


5 00 


Bailey, Miss 


25 


Bagley, John 


25 


Baker, Rosa A., N. Y. 


3 00 


Baldwin, Burwell 


1 00 


Baldwin, Burwell, Jr. 


50 


Bangley, N. J. 


1 00 


Banks, Theophilus 


50 


Barkley, Miss 


10 


Bartlett, Sarah, 37 Bank St. 


2 00 


Bass, Thomas 


05 


Bass, Julia 


50 


Bass, Maggie 


15 


Bates, Augustus 


10 


Batts, Drury, Blaudford 


1 00 


Batts, Mary 


1 00 


Baugh, Wm., Boiling St. 


1 75 


Baugh, Francis E. 


1 00 


Baugh, Eva 


25 


Beasley, Bessie 


10 


Beasley, Sarah 


15 


Beasley, William 


25 


Bell, Sarah W. Pegram St. 


2 25 


Bell, J. H. 


5 00 


Bell, Ida K. 


1 25 


Bell, Henry 


50 


Bell, John T. 


50 


Bell, Laura J. 


65 


Benn, Martha 


25 


Berry, Mary A. 


50 


Beckwith, T. S. 


50 



Black, Robt. Fedral St., 50 

Blackwell, Maria 2 00 

Blackwell, Isham 1 50 

Black, Richard 50 

Black, Eliza 50 

Black, Robt. 10 

Bland, Mattie 15 

Bland, Joseph W. 15 

Bland, Louisa, Chesterfield 25 

Bland, William 50 

Blanche, Annie B. 50 

Blanche, Joseph D. 50 

Blanche, Fannie 10 

Blount, Sarsh 1 00 

Binford, S. E. J. 50 
Blick, Emily, L. Duulop 

Street, 25 

Blick Alice 1 00 

Blick, Calvin, Duulop St. 1 00 

Blick, Augustus, DunlopSt. 1 00 

Blick, Mary, Dunlop St 15 

Boiling, Jas. W. 10 
Boiling, Margaret, Mercury 

Street 1 10 

Boiling, Martha 50 

Boiling, Rebecca 2 00 

Boiling, Bessie, Mercury St. 10 
Boiling, Robt. Jr., Mercury 

Street 10 

Boiling, Ruth, Mercury St. 10 

Boiling, Minor 1 00 

Boiling, W. H. 50 

Boiling, Sarah, Miller St. 1 00 

Boiling, Irene 25 

Boiling, Betsy 1 00 

Boiling, Sarah, Carter St. 10 

Bond, Henrietta 10 

Bond, EvaM. 1 00 

Bonner, Walter 10 

Bonner, Pleasant, Perry St. 5 00 

Bonner, Julia 10 

Booker, Fannie 1 00 

Booker, Fannie, Jones St. 50 

Birdsong, Mr. 25 

Birdsong, Mrs. 10 

Bowles, George, Carter St. 1 00 

Bowles, Charity, Carter St. 1 50 

Boyd, Georgia, Jones St. 1 00 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 



73 



Bradley, Richard 

Bradshaw, Mary 

Bragg, W. A. 

Bragg, Jane 

Bragg, Edwin 

Bragg, John S. 

Bragg, Wm., Jr. 

Bragg, Wm. H. 

Bragg, Daniel 

Branch, Hannah, Federal St. 

Branch, Alice, Guarantee St. 

Branch, Julia 

Branch, Judith 

Braxton, Kate, Baltimore, 

Md. 
Brewer, Jno., Lomb'dSt. 
Brewer, Lucretia " " 
Brewer, Jas. N., " " 
Brewer, Ermine 
Bride, Jessie M., Rome St. 
Bride, Susan, 

Bright, Sarah T., Perry St. 
Briggs, Laura 
Brisbon, Rebecca, Jones St. 
Brooks, Ewd. Harding St. 
Brooks, Eddie 
Brooks, Bessie " " 

Brooks, Nettie " " 

Brooks, Ruth 
Brown, Lillian 
Brown, Gracie 
Brown, Julia 
Brown, Louisa W. 
Brown, Nancy 
Brown, Pauline 
Brown, Haywood 
Brown, Louisa, Lombard St. 
Brown, Tabbie 
Brown, Betsy, 645 Rome St. 
Brown, Virginia, 645 Rome St. 
Brown, J. T. 
Brown, Mary 
Brown, Lizzie 
Brown, Adele 
Brown, Ellen, 
Brown, Lucy, High St. 
Brown, Virgie 
Brown, Fannie 
6 



10 


Brown, Nannie 


1 (HI 


50 


Brown, Amy 


25 


1 00 


Butcher, Thomas 


10 


25 


Butcher, Charles 


10 


05 


Butcher, Agnes 


1 00 


05 


Butler, Isabella 


75 


05 


Butler, T. F. 


26 


10 


Butler, John C. 


10 


05 


Butts, Matilda, Federal St. 


50 


50 


Byas, Hattie, 422 Duulop St. 


1 00 


1 00 


Byrd, Martha 


25 


62 


Byrd, Henry, Brooklyn 


25 


50 


Byrd, John 


25 




Byrd, Leonard 


50 


5 00 


Cabaniss, Charles 


10 


5 00 


Cabaniss, George 


05 


1 00 


Cameron, Mary 


10 


1 00 


Campbell, Laura V. N. and 




5 50 


C. I. 


1 00 


25 


Campbell, R. D. 


50 


25 


Campbell, John R. Chester- 




3 00 


field 


1 00 


1 00 


Campbell, Martha Chester- 




75 


field 


1 00 


1 00 


Campbell, Carrie B. 


1 55 


25 


Carrrington, Anderson 




25 


Shepard Street 


1 25 


25 


Carrington, Pauline Shep- 




25 


ard Street 


1 50 


10 


Carrington, Jas. Sheppard 




10 


Street 


25 


1 00 


Carrington, Joseph, Shep- 




1 00 


pard Street 


30 


05 


Carrington, Peter Sheppard 




05 


Street 


05 


25 


Carter, Emma J. Perry St. 


1 00 


2 00 


Carter, Mary C. Perry St. 


1 00 


10 


Carter, Lucretia Boston, 




1 00 


Mass. 


3 00 


35 


Carter, Robert 


10 


10 


Carter, Martha 


50 


50 


Carter, Edith 


1 00 


25 


Carter, G. F. 118 New St. 


1 00 


15 


Carter, George 


50 


1 00 


Carter, Rosa 


25 


1 00 


Cate, Ruth 


25 


05 


Caughliu, James 


1 00 


1 00 


Chavers James 


25 



74 



SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 



Chavers, Thomas 

Chavers, Annie 

Chavers, Bessie 

Chissell, John T. Jr., Farmer 
Street 

Childs, J. D. 

Chitman, Ann H. Sheppard 
Street 

Claiborne, Gertrude 

Claiborne, Henrietta 

Claiborne, Anna 

Claiborne, Nancy 

Claiborne, Margaret, 443 Gill 
Street 

Claiborne, Moses, 443 Gill St. 

Claiborne, Elizabeth 

Clarke, Nellie 

Clayton, J. H., Sheppard St. 

Clayton, Hattie " " 

Clayton, Julia W., " 

Clayton, Jos. C. 

Clayton, Chas. L. " 

Clarke, Aun E. Lombard St. 

Coleman, Kiuchen 

Coleman, James 

Coleman, Marinda, Com- 
merce Street 

Coleman, Polly B. 

Coleman, M. A., 200 Harri- 
son Street 

Coleman, B. M., 200 Harri- 
son Street 

Coleman, N. G., 260 Hani- 
sou Street 

Coleman, Whitfield 

Coleman, Alice 

Coleman, Nicie 

Coleman, Lucinda, Shep- 
pard Street 

Coles, Henrietta 

Coleman, Nellie, Jefferson 
Street 

Coles, Luviuia, Hickory St. 

Cogbill, Roberta F. 

Colding, R. E. 

Cooke, William 

Cooke, Andrew 

Collier, Fisher, Sycamore St. 



15 Collier, Mary L. 
10 Collier, Estelle 
10 Cooley, Shadrach, Mars St. 
Colson, Kate D. Harrison St. 
1 00 Colson, Edna 
1 00 Colson, Myra H. " 
Colson, Jas.M. Jr. " 
1 00 Colson, Wm. 

10 Colson, Henry " " 

15 Cosby, Rich'd Deacon, Gill 
50 Street 

1 00 Cosby, Sarah, Gill Street 

Gotten, Catharine 
1 00 Coy, Dolly, West Street 
1 00 Cox, Thomas E., Lee Ave. 
1 00 Cox, Flora E., 
25 Crawley, H. B., Blandford 
50 Crawley, J. A., 
25 Crawley, M.Mrs., " 
25 Crawley, Henrietta " 
10 Crawley, Wm. C, " 
10 Crowder, Eleanor, " 
1 00 Crowder, Alice, Blandford 
25 Crowder, John D., " 
05 Crowder, Thomas, " 
Crowder, Samuel, " 
25 Grumpier, Pattie 
1 00 Crumpler, Indie 
Grumpier, Lucy 
1 00 Crumpler, John 
Curry, James 
25 Curtain, P. H. 

Dabney, Emma, Sheppard 

1 00 Street 

100 Dabney, Sarah A., Sheppard 
50 Street 

50 Dabley, Florence, Sheppard 
Street 

2 00 Dabney William H., Dunlop 
50 Street 

Dabney, Bernard W., Dun- 
5 45 lop Street 

1 00 Dabney, Roberta, Dunlop 
1 00 Street 

25 Dabney, Percy, Dunlop St. 

10 Dabney, Blanche, Dunlop 

10 Street 

25 Dabney, Julia A. 



25 
50 
1 15 
1 10 
25 
25 
10 
25 
25 



5 00 

3 00 

00 

00 

00 

1 00 

50 

50 

50 

50 

1 00 

1 00 

50 

1 00 

10 

10 

50 

25 

50 

25 

05 

10 



1 00 

2 00 
40 

1 00 
15 

1 00 

50 

15 
20 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 



75 



Dabney, Julia 


1 50 


Dupee, Maggie 


10 


Daly, William 


15 


Dykes, Solomon 


I'.', 


Daniels, C. J., V. N. & C. I. 


'25 


Eanes, C. D. 


25 


Daniels, Chas. " 


05 


Edley, Louis 


20 


Daniels, Carrie " " 


05 


Edwards, Auuie 


r,() 


Daniels, Corinne " " 


10 


Edwards, Kate, Jones St. 


45 


Daniels, Sadie " " 


10 


Edwards, Grace " " 


45 


Daniels, Vattel " " 


10 


Edwards, Malinda " " 


2 00 


Daniels, Willie " " 


10 


Edwards, Edward " " 


1 00 


Dandridge, Maud, Wilcox 




Edwards, Dora, N. Y. 


1 oil 


Street 


25 


Edwards, Henrietta 


2 00 


Dandridge, Fannie, Wilcox 




Edmunds, Marcia B., Com- 




Street 


10 


merce Street 


:,(i 


Davis, John H., Halifax St. 


5 00 


Edmunds, Mary L., Com- 




Davis, Sarah, " " 


2 50 


merce Street 


25 


Davis, Annie S. , Rome St. 


2 75 


Ellis, Edward, Jones St. 


50 


Davis, Daisy " " 


05 


Ellis, Josephine 


2 00 


Davis, Nelson, Federal St. 


1 50 


Elridge, Phillis, N. Y. 


1 00 


Davis, Gladys 


05 


Epps, C. W., West St. 


1 00 


Davis, Marion 


05 


Epps, Belle " " 


3 00 


Davis, Nancy 


1 00 


Epps, Ethel " " 


15 


Davis, WMlliam 


25 


Epps, Janie " " 


15 


Dickerson, Ruth 


10 


Epps, Solomon B., Farmer 




Diggs, Wm., Sycamore St. 


5 00 


Street 


1 00 


Diggs, Lucy, 


2 00 


Epps, Mattie B., Farmer St. 


1 00 


Diggs, Mary E., " 


3 00 


Epps, Mary A., 503 Pegram 




Dixie, William 


25 


Street 


2 00 


Dickerson, Catharine, High 




Evans, Edw'd, Sr., Pegram 




Street 


2 00 


Street 


50 


Dennis, Lelia, Second St. 


25 


Evans, Edward Jr. 


1 00 


Diggs, Susie 


25 


Evans, Lizzie 


2 00 


Dobbin, John, Dunlop St. 


50 


Evans, Mar^, Federal St. 


25 


Dodson, Samuel 


40 


Evans, Blanche 


50 


Dodson, Haywood 


05 


Farley, Rich'd Sr. Dunlop St 


1 00 


Dodson, Mary 


25 


Farley, Sarah, " " 


1 00 


Dodson, William 


10 


Farley, Alex., " " 


50 


Donnan, Alexander 


25 


Farley, Sarah M., " " 


50 


Dotson, Lizzie 


50 


Farley, Rich'd Jr., " 


25 


Draper, Elisa 


1 00 


Farley, Nannie B., " " 


50 


Drew, Kate, Union Street 


50 


Fayerman, Fannie C. 


50 


Drewery, Elisa, South Ave. 


2 25 


Featherstone, O. C. 


25 


Drewery, Emmett, South 




Featherstone, S. 


05 


Avenue 


1 00 


Fields, Julia 


2 50 


Drumgoole, Mary, Cedar St. 


1 00 


Ferguson, Ella 


10 


Dunlop, Lucy 


05 


Fields, Social 


10 


Dunlop, Sarah 


05 


Fields, Frank 


25 


Duggar, Mr. 


10 


Fields, W. S., Halifax St. 


1 00 


Dupee, Kiah 


25 


Fields, Walter 


2.3 



76 



SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 



Finney, Emma Harrison St. 
Finney, Susan, " 
Finney, Leonard, " 
Fisher, Henry, " 
Fisher, Virginia E. " 
Fisher, Sylvia, " 
Fitch, Fred M. Mr. and Mrs. 
Fisher, Adeline 
Fitzgerald, Mary 
Fitzgerald, Benjamin 
Flippin, M. J. 
Flippin, Jos. M. 
Flood, Britania 
Foster, James 
Forbes, Alex., Dea., Dunlop 

Street 
Foreman, Gertrude, V. N. 

&C. I. 
Ford, Eliza, St. Matthew St. 
Ford, Elijah " 
French, Rebecca 
Friend, William, Farmer St. 
Friend, Rosa, 

Gaines, Barney, Wilcox St. 
Gaines, Charlotte 
Gaudy, John M., Prof. V. N. 

&C. I. 
Games, Thos., Perry St. 
Garratt, Rennie 
Gates, B. F. 

George, John, Sycamore St. 
George, Indie A. 
Gee, Albert 
Gholson, John 
Giles, Sarah 
Giles, Virginia 
Giles, Sarah, Rome St. 
Gill, Elizabeth 
Gill, Carrie T. 
Gibbon, Charles 
Gibbon, John 
Gilliam, Willis 
Gilliam, Margaret, Farmer 

Street 
Gilliam, Maud, Farmer St. 
Gilliam, Geneva, Farmer St. 
Gilliam, Arthur 
Gilliam, Walter 



50 


Gilliam, Luther 




50 


50 


Goode, Georgiana, Jones St. 


05 


25 


Givens, John 




50 


1 00 


Glover, Frances E. 




75 


1 00 


Goode, Henry 




05 


50 


Goodson, Willis 




25 


1 00 


Golden, Lucy 




25 


50 


Glenn, Lucien M. 




25 


2 00 


Gofluey, Mary L., Rome St. 


3 00 


1 OU 


Goffney, Victoria, " 


ii 


1 00 


05 


Goffney, Mary E., " 


1 1 


25 


05 


Goffney, Matilda, " 


ii 


25 


10 


Goffney, Chas. Jr., " 


1 1 


50 


10 


Greene, Mary 




1 00 




Green, Louis 




1 00 


4 00 


Green, C. T. 




50 




Green, L. B. 




50 


25 


Green, Rosa B. 




25 


50 


Green, Churchill 




25 


1 75 


Green, Wyatt 




10 


1 00 


Green, Clarissa 




1 25 


25 


Green, Pauline 




50 


2 00 


Green, Joseph 




1 00 


1 00 


Green, Edwin 




2 00 


25 


Gregory, R. A. Mrs. N. 


Y. 


1 00 




Gregory, Carrie 




10 


50 


Graves, Benjamin 




10 


2 00 


Grammar, Marsilla 




25 


05 


Grammar, Win., Grace St. 


1 00 


50 


Grammar, Missouri, " 


ii 


1 00 


50 


Griffin, James, Shore Street 


1 50 


50 


Griffin, Clarence 




50 


25 


Griffin, Hannah 




50 


50 


Griffin, T. M. Sr., New St. 


2 00 


25 


Griffin, Sarah, " 


1 1 


1 00 


50 


Griffin, Gertrude, " 


(i 


75 


75 


Griffin, James, " 


ii 


50 


50 


Griffin, William A., " 


ii 


25 


1 00 


Griffin, Henry, " 


ii 


25 


10 


GriffiD, Thos. Jr., " 


ii 


25 


50 


Griffith, John, Mabry 


St. 


1 00 


1 00 


Griffith, Alice, " 


ii 


1 00 




Grinnell, Sarah 




25 


1 00 


Grinnell, Virginia 




25 


05 


Guilford, Adolphus, Mars St. 


25 


05 


Guilford, Beatrice, ' 


ii 


25 


50 


Guilford, Joseph 




25 


50 


Guilford, Ruffiu 




50 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, t>. D. 



77 



Guilford, Sarah 


50 


Guiltord, Rebecca 


1 55 


Hall, Fannie, Rome St. 


50 


Hall, Rosa, Jones St. 


25 


Hammet, Sarah 


10 


Handsome, Virginia 


05 


Hardy, Winifred, Pegram St. 


1 00 


Hargraves, J. W., Deacon, 




Church Street 


1 00 


Hargraves, Mary 


1 00 


Hargraves, W. T. 


25 


Harper, Rebecca 


25 


Harris, Carrie, Perry St. 


25 


Harris, H. L., Jr. 


20 


Harris, Wm. H. 


25 


Harris, Ruth, Lombard St. 


1 00 


Harris, John 


50 


Harris, Susie 


50 


Harris, Alice 


5 40 


Harris, Lee A. 


50 


Harris, Isabel, Jones St. 


50 


Harris, Abram 


05 


Harris, Edmund 


2 00 


Harris, Susan 


1 00 


Harris, Addie 


50 


Harris, Agnes 


75 


Harris, Nicholas 


50 


Harrison, Agnes 


25 


Harrison, Addie 


50 


Harrison, Robt. 


50 


Harris, N. B. 


1 00 


Harris, Ezekiel 


1 00 


Harrison. Louise E. 


25 


Harris, Irene, Harrison St. 


20 


Harris, Maggie, " " 


10 


Harrison, Florence 


10 


Hemlet, Sarah 


50 


Harvel, Tina, Pegram St. 


1 00 


Harvel, Clemintina, Pegram 




Street 


75 


Harvel, Sarah, Pegram St. 


50 


Harvel, Minnie, Pegram St. 


25 


Harvey, Miss 


25 


Hastings, Louisa, South St. 


75 


Hastings, Samuel 


1 00 


Hatch, Cornelia, Farmer St. 


5 00 


Hatcher, Virginia 


1 00 


Hawks, Adeline 


25 



Hawks, Florence 

Hawks, Rich'd Dea., Jones 
Street 

Hawks, Margaret, Jones St. 

Hayes, John W., Mrs. 

Hayes, Junius 

Hayes, Estelle 

Hayes, Lucy 

Hayes, Lucy, Jones St., 202 

Hayden, D. I., V.N. &C. I., 

Hicks, Berry, Grace Street 

Hicks, Hettle " " 

Hicks, Mary A., " 

Hicks, Mrs. 

Hicks, W. G. 

Hicks, Green 

Hill, Letha 

Hill, Corinne A., 

Hill, M.J. 

Hill, E. A. 

Hill, Peter, Duulop St. 

Hill, Gabriella, " " 

Hill, Susie B. 

Hill, Virginia 

Hill, Fannie 

Hill, Addie 

Hill, Sarah R. 

Hill, Emily 

Hill, Hattie 

Hill, Lucy 

Hill, Gracie 

Hill, Sarah, West Street 

Hill, Maria 

Hill, Essie, Adams Street 

Hill, Annie, " " 

Hill, Rosetta, Jones St. 

Hill, Mary E., Adams St. 

Hill, Nannie B. 

Holloway, Victoria West St. 

Holmes, Jas. M. B., Guaran- 
tee Street 

Holmes, Eva V., Guarantee 
Street 

Holmes, Rosa M. 

Howard, Jennie 

Holmes, John R. 

Howard, Maud, New St. 

Howard, Josephine, New St. 



10 

2 50 

2 .VI 
1 00 

25 
o.-, 
25 

1 00 

1 00 
25 
25 
25 
25 

1 00 
50 
10 

1 00 
50 
50 

5 25 

3 25 
1 35 

50 
05 
1 00 
1 25 
50 
10 
25 
25 
50 
30 
10 
25 
1 00 
25 
25 
25 

10 

50 
05 
25 
25 
05 
05 



L.ofC. 



78 



SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 



Howard 


, Robert, New St. 




05 


Jackson, Josephine 


50 


Howard, Spurgeon " " 




05 


Jacksou, Laura 


10 


Hucles, H. B. Mr. and Mrs. 






James, Chas. H. Shepard St. 


2 00 


V. N. andC. I. 


1 


00 


James, Rosa, " " 


2 00 


Hucles, Elaine, V. N.&C. I. 




10 


James, Catharine, " " 


1 00 


Hucles, Ruth, " " 




10 


James, Liuwood, " " 


50 


Hucles, Henry, " " 




10 


James, Andrew " " 


20 


Hudson, Margaret, Farmer 






James, Ruby, " " 


10 


Street 


1 


00 


James. Mary, " " 


05 


Huunicut, John 




50 


James, Elva, 


05 


Hunter, Moses F. 




75 


Jarratt, John R. Pocahontas 


50 


Jackson, Anna, Wilcox St. 


1 


00 


Jarratt, Cornelia, ,; 


75 


Jackson 


Rosetta 


1 


00 


Jarratt, William, " 


25 


Jackson, 


James 




10 


Jarratt, Lavinia " 


50 


Jackson, 


Dorothy A. 




25 


Jarratt, Herbert " 


15 


Jackson 


Ephraim, Main St. 


1 


00 


Jarratt, John R. Jr., " 


25 


Jackson, 


Virginia " " 


1 


00 


Jarratt, Norman " 


15 


Jackson 


Nannie E. " " 




25 


Jasper, Abraham 


50 


Jackson 


David " " 




25 


Jefferseu, S. E. 


25 


Jackson 


Leanna V. " " 




25 


Jenkins, Catharine, Com- 




Jackson 


Andrew, N. Y. 


1 


00 


merce Street 


2 00 


Jackson, 


Kate B., Lee Ave. 


O 


00 


Jeukius, Frank 


50 


Jackson 


Juo. A. " 




25 


Jeter, Thomas 


25 


Jackson 


Maud 




30 


Jeter, George 


80 


Jacksou, 


Eva, 




30 


Jeter, Lillie 


10 


Jackson, 


Sadie, 




30 


Jeter, Susan 


1 60 


Jackson, 


James 




10 


Jeter, Harriett, Federal St. 


5 00 


Jacksou 


Simon 


1 


00 


Johns, Heury, 


25 


Jackson 


Arthur 




50 


Johusou, Philis 


50 


Jackson 


Arthur, Mrs. 




50 


Johnson, O. M. Mrs., Gill St. 


75 


Jackson 


Floyd 




05 


Johusou, John, Richmond, 




Jackson 


Willie 




05 


Va. 


1 00 


Jackson 


Bernard 




05 


Johusou, Lavinia 


20 


Jackson 


Albert 




05 


Johnson, W. M. 


25 


Jackson 


Emma 




10 


Johnson, Anna P. 


1 00 


Jackson 


Nancy R. 


1 


25 


Johnson, Adeline 


50 


Jackson 


Julia 




50 


Johnson, Henry, 637 Rome 




Jackson 


Mary J., Jones St. 


1 


25 


Street 


5 00 


Jackson 


Simon, Mars " 


1 


00 


Johnson, Malinda K.. 037 




Jackson 


Andrew, New St. 


5 


00 


Rome Street 


5 00 


Jackson 


, Malinda " " 


2 00 


Johnson, Wm. H. 637 Rome 




Jackson 


, Jennie 


1 


50 


Street 


5 00 


Jackson 


, Eva M., Wythe St. 


1 


00 


Johnson, Nannie B., 637 




Jackson 


W. F., " " 




25 


Rome Street 


5 00 


Jackson 


, Richard 




25 


Johnson, Jane, Second St. 


25 


Jacksou 


Nancy R., Union 






Johnson, Margaret 


25 


Street 


2 


25 


Johnson, Lavinia, R. R. 




Jacksou 


, James 




10 


Avenue 


50 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 



79 



Johusou, Augustus 
Jobnson, A. E., Mrs. 
Johusou, Josepbiue 
Jobusou, Virginia 
Johusou, Martha 
Johuson, Julia 
Johnson, Louisa, Joues St. 
Johnson, Joseph 
Johnson, Roberta L., Hick- 
ory Street 
Johusou, Roberta M., Joues 

Street 
Johuson, M. E., Andover, 

Mass. 
Johnson, J. W. 
Johuson, Emma 
Johnson, James 
Johusou, Rebecca 
Johusou, Elva 
Johnson, Nora 
Johusou, Stephen, Farmer 

Street 
Johnsou. Sophrouia, Byrne 

Street 
Johusou, John A. 
Johuson, Austiu 
Johusou, Jeunie 
Johnson, Lucretia C, V. N. 

and C. I. 
Jobnson, Christine M. 
Johnson, W., V. N. and 

C.I. 
Johnson, Elizabeth, V. N. 

audC. 1. 
Johnston, Hugo, V. N. aud 

C. I. 
Johnston, Virginius, V. N. 

and C. I. 
Johnston, Oliver, V. N. aud 

C. I. 
Johnston, Lowell, V. N. and 

C. I. 
Johnston, Nanuie E., V. N. 

and C. I. 
Jones, Joseph 
Jones, Leonard, 
Jones, Susie A. 16 Friend St. 
Joues, Ada 



25 Jones, Emma 50 

1 25 Jones, Susan 6 00 

50 Jones, Rowland, Shore St. 25 

25 Jones, Frank 05 

50 Joues, John 1 00 

25 Joues, Susan 1 00 

1 00 Jones, Serlina 10 

2 00 Jones, Maggie, Sbeppard St. 1 00 

Joues, C. Z. Mrs. V. N. and 
75 C.I. 1 00 

Jones, Simon, Prince George 
50 County 

Joues, Loveless 
5 00 Joues, Jones 
25 Joues, William 
50 Jones, Patsy 
1 00 Joues, Philis 
50 Jones, Lawsou 
25 Jones, Lillie A. 
25 Jones, Sarah D., New York 

Jones, Freeman 
1 00 Jones, Elnora 

Joues, Fannie 
25 Joues, John 
25 Joues, Stepheu 
25 Jones, Abbie 
25 Jones, Elizabeth 

Jones, Julia 
1 00 Joues, Sarah 
25 Jones, Rosa 

Jones, Susie 
50 Joues, Susan 

Jones, Polly, 320 Gresham St 
1 00 Joues, Emma 

Joues, Virginia E. Halifax 
10 Street 

Joues, Charles E. Halifax St. 
10 Jones, Patsy 

Jones, Isabella, Gill Street 
05 Jones, Mr. St. Matthew St. 

Jones, Robt. Jr. Lee Ave. 
50 Jones, Elizabeth, O., Lee 

Avenue 
50 Jones, Ruth A., Lee Ave. 
15 Jones, Rosa B. " " 
10 Jones, Ada 
50 Jones, Elizabeth, 20 Lom- 
50 bard Street 50 





50 




50 




25 




25 


1 


00 




05 




10 




25 





00 


1 


75 




20 




10 




40 




05 




05 




10 




25 




50 




50 




50 


2 


00 




25 


2 00 


1 


00 


1 


00 


1 


00 




10 




50 


2 


50 


1 


00 




20 




10 


■1 


00 



So 



SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 



Jones, Edward 


10 


Maclin, Plummer, Jones St. 


50 


Jones, Hallie M. 


10 


Maclin, John F. 


1 00 


Jones, Emma 


05 


Mackey, Lucinda 


25 


Jordan, Julia, Harrison St. 


1 50 


Mackey, Alice 


50 


Jordan, Mary 


25 


Maclin, Jessie, Carter St. 


1 00 


Jordan, Hugh 


10 


Maclin, Anna R. 


1 00 


Kennard, Margaret aud 




Macliu, William 


10 


Richard, Lee Ave. 


12 75 


Madison, Cora, Market St. 


1 25 


Keeler, Mary 


25 


Madison, Agnes, " " 


2 25 


King, Junius 


1 00 


Maloue, Mattie 


10 


King, Sarah 


50 


Malone, Thomas 


25 


Lassiter, D. W. Dr. Tabb St. 


5 00 


Manson, John W., Rock St. 


10 


Lawson, Queen V. Syca. St. 


25 


Mansou, Lucy J., " " 


50 


Layton, W. H. T. Blandford 


1 00 


Maueon, David T., " " 


30 


Langley, Milly, Clinton St. 


50 


Mansou, John R., 


05 


Ledbetter, Timous 


10 


Manson, Jas. B. 


05 


Lee, Richard 


50 


Manson, Wm. H. 


05 


Lee, Hester 


25 


Manson, Rachel C. 


15 


Lee, Maggie 


10 


Manson, Laura E. 


15 


Lee, Willie 


10 


Manson, Salia 


10 


Lee, Mary 


25 


Manson, Stephen 


10 


Lee, Virginia, Gressett St. 


1 00 


Mansou, Ruth 


10 


Leegrand George 


50 


Mansou, Lou Jeanuelt 


30 


Lee, Fannie H. 


50 


Mason, Jas. T. Pocahontas 


1 25 


Leigh, Rosa 


1 00 


Mason, Harold 


10 


Levy, M. 


10 


Marshall, John 


1 00 


Lewis, Sallie 


50 


Mason, Cornelius Lee Ave 


2 75 


Lewis, Alice 


50 


Mason, Elizabeth " " 


1 25 


Lewis, Amanda 


50 


Mason, Rosa " " 


3 00 


Lewis, Henry, Washington 


50 


Mason, Susie '' " 


1 25 


Lewis, Haberuia 


25 


Mason, Femalia Lombard St 


1 00 


Lewis, Hardinia 


50 


Mason, Frances 


25 


Lewis, Marie 


25 


Mason, Virginia 


50 


Lewis, R. L. 


25 


Mason, Arthur 


10 


Lewis, Elizabeth 


1 00 


Matteson, R. T. 


25 


Lewis, Louisa 


1 00 


Matthews, Henry Gill St 


25 


Lewis, Bettie 


50 


Matthews, Fred. Wilcox St 


4 00 


Liscomb, J. M. 


10 


Matthews, Alice " 


3 00 


Love, Caroline, Harding St. 


50 


xMatthews, Fred. Jr. " 


2 00 


Lockett, Missie 


1 00 


Matthews, Fannie West St 


1 00 


Lucas, Frances 


1 10 


Matthews, Mabel " 


10 


Lundy, Jacob 


1 50 


Matthews, Madeline " 


10 


Lundy, Miles 


2 25 


Mattox, O. W. 


50 


Lundy, Adeline 


1 00 


Mayo, George Cross St 


1 75 


Mabry, William 


25 


Martin, Maria 


10 


Mabry, Lucy A., Jones St. 


1 00 


May, Lottie 


10 


Mabry, Priscilla, Perry St. 


50 


May, Sarah Mercury St 


1 10 


Macliu, Laura 


1 00 


McCray, Cornelius Jones St 


25 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 



81 



McCray, Frank Gill St 


2 00 


McCray, Harriet " 


2 00 


McGee, Jane 


50 


McKenzie, Tonie Chest'field 


25 


McRae, W. L. 


25 


Mcllwaine, W. B. Wash. St 


50 


Mcllwaine, W. B. Mrs. " 


50 


Mcllwaine, Annie C. " 


25 


Mcllwaine, Lucy A. " 


25 


Mcllwaine, Joe and A. C 


'25 


Miles, Thomas R. 


50 


Miller, Sibyl V. N. & C. I. 


50 


Mitchell Iris 


1 25 


Moody, Lucy 


1 00 


Moody, Martha 


1 00 


Moody. Mattie Mercer St 


25 


Moody, Sarah " 


25 


Moore, Sarah N. Y. 


2 00 


Monroe, Sarah 2nd St 


1 00 


Monroe, Sallie 


25 


Morgan, Estelle, Sheppard 




Street 


05 


Morgan, Peter, Sheppard St. 


05 


Morgan, Joseph " " 


05 


Morgan, Pearl, " " 


05 


Morgan, Bertha, " " 


05 


Morgan, Ernest, " " 


05 


Morgan, Mack, 


25 


Morton, Crawley, Farmer St. 


50 


Morton, Mary " " 


2 00 


Morton, Josephine, " 


35 


Morgan, Ruth, 


30 


Morton, Marie, " 


,05 


Morton, Maggie, New York, 


50 


Morris, Ada 


10 


Morse, Fannie, River St. 


1 00 


Motley, Dennis, 


2 00 


Moyler, J. Edward, Dr. 


75 


Myers, Robt. Dea., Wilcox 




and West Streets 


1 50 


Myers, Rosa 


10 


Myers, Charles 


05 


Nelson, Anna B. 


10 


Newcomb, Jessie 


25 


Niblett, Martha 


50 


Nicholas, Geo., Byrne St. 


25 


Norman, Ada R. 


1 00 


Norris, Fleming, Harding St. 


1 50 



Norris, Alice L., Harding St. 
Norris, Catharine, Poca- 
hontas 
Norris, Sarah B. Pocahontas 
Nuunally, C. B. 
Owens, Mary E. 
Owens, E. 
Owens, Leslie 
Owens, Mr. 
Paige, M. L. 

Palmer, Maria, Sheppard St., 
Palmer, Mary, " " 

Parham, Louisa 
Parham, Geo. Farmer St. 
Parham, Rosa, " " 
Parham, Harriett 
Parham, Julia 

Parker, Mary, St. Matthew St 
Parker, Mollie, Newark, N. J. 
Patterson, H. B., Oak St. 
Patterson, John H., Jersey 

City 
Patterson, Rebecca, Heights 
Partin, Robt. N. Washing- 
ton, Street 
Pegram, Dolly 

Pegram, Walter, Sheppard St 
Pegram, Lelia, " " 

Pegram, Maud, " " 

Pegram, Charles " " 
Pegram, Rosebud, " " 
Pegram, Joseph, " " 
Pegram, Charles, " " 
Pegram, Amy L., " " 
Pegram, Grace M. " " 
Pegram, Mamie 
Pegram, Jennie 
Pegram, Mabel 
Pegram, Elijah 
Pegram, T. M. 

Penn, Algedora Commerce St 
Penn, William H. 
Penn, Thomas A. 
Penister, Eleanor Gill St 
Penister, Lillian " 

Penister, Wendell " 
Penister, Adelaide " 
Penister, Thos. Baltimore Md 



1 00 

1 00 

35 

25 

.".0 

05 

10 

I 00 

1 00 

1 50 

25 

1 00 

1 00 

10 

10 

50 

1 00 

50 



1 25 
1 00 

50 
1 00 
50 
50 
10 
15 
00 
10 
05 
10 
10 
10 
25 
10 
05 
05 
50 
25 

29 

1 25 

50 

50 

35 

1 50 



82 



SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 



Penister, Carrie, Baltimore 


1 50 


Reaves, Wm. A., South Ave. 


1 00 


Peters, C. B. Sheppard St 2 00 


Reaves, Martba " " 


1 00 


Peters, Grace " 


25 


Reaves, Gilbertha " " 


1 00 


Peters, W. H. 


10 


Reaves, Mary 


10 


Peters, Maggie 


1 00 


Rees, R. H. 


10 


Peters, Mamie 


25 


Reinach A. S. 


50 


Peters, Walter, Cor. Duulop 




Rives, Lucy 


10 


and Sheppard 


50 


Richards, Alberta 


10 


Peters, Rebecca P., Dunlop 




Richards, Eddie 


10 


and Sbeppard 


50 


Richardson, Nancy 


3 75 


Peters, VVm. Collier's Alley 


2 00 


Riddick, Minnie 


10 


Perry, M. C. 


10 


Ridley, Kate 


1 00 


Phillips, J. W. Prof. V N & C I 


25 


Roberts, Julia, A. 


1 00 


Phillips, Martha, Perry St 


1 00 


Robinson, K. W. Harrison St 


75 


Pittman, Robert, Jr 


10 


Robinson, Waverly Harding 




Pittman, Florence Pegram St 


50 


Street 


2 50 


Pape, Caroline, Brown's Al. 


25 


Robinson, Anna Harding St. 


2 50 


Price, Sarah R. 


10 


Robinson, Auabell, " " 


35 


Price, Robt. S. 


10 


Robinson, Corinue, " " 


35 


Price, Minnie 


25 


Robinson, Eunice, " " 


30 


Pryor, Indie A., Washington 




Robinson, Gertrude " " 


75 


Street 


2 10 


Robinson, Waverly J., Hard- 




Pryor, Floyd, Wash. St. 


1 00 


ing Street 


25 


Pryor, Helen, " 


1 00 


Robinson, Maggie 


25 


Pryor, Mary V. " 


2 00 


Robinson, Bettie, Bank St. 


5 00 


Pryor, Mary " 


1 00 


Robiusou, Roberta, Gill St. 


1 00 


Pryor, Augusta, " 


1 00 


Robinson, Laura 


10 


Pryor, Garnette, " 


25 


Robinson, William 


25 


Pryor, Edward, Dea., Shep- 




Robinson, Jobn R. 


25 


pard Street 


3 2-") 


Robinson, Ephraim 


05 


Pryor, Martha 


50 


Robinson, Martha 


05 


Putney, Lucy 


1 00 


Robinson, John 


25 


Petney, Alice 


50 


Robinson, Carrie 


10 


Puss, Mr. 


50 


Robinson, George 


25 


Rahily, Daniel 


1 00 


Robinson, Philip 


1 00 


Rainey, Mrs. 


25 


Robinson, Scott, Boston, 




Rainey, Samuel 


25 


Mass. 


1 00 


Rainey, Lucy 


1 00 


Robinson, Louisa, Boston, 




Randall, Lillie 


2 10 


Mass. 


1 00 


Ramsey, E. B , New St. 


50 


Rockwell, Mr. 


25 


Ramsey, Laura J. Middle- 




Rockwell, Mrs. 


25 


boro, Mass. 


1 00 


Roper & Co., 


1 00 


Rawlings, Wm. Lee Avenue 


1 00 


Rowlett, Georgia, Port Wal- 




Rawlings, Amanda, " 


1 00 


thall, Va. 


25 


Rawlings, Bessie " 


30 


Rowlett, Lizzie, Port Wal- 




Rawlings, Carrie, " 


30 


thall, Va. 


25 


Rawlings, Ethel " 


30 


Royalls, Mattie, Mercer St. 


25 


Rawlings, Olivet, " 


30 


Royalls, Richard, Wash. St. 


50 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D., 



83 



1 



15 
25 
50 
05 
05 
01 

1 00 
70 
10 
15 

1 00 



Royalls, Eliza 

Royal Is, Charles 

Roy, Matilda, Market St. 

Ruffiu, George 

Sargent, Eva 

Scott, Ruth, Gill Street 

Scott, Eliza, New York 

Scott, Piukey 

Scott, Mr. 

Scott, Mary 

Seward, Simon 

Sneddon, Thos. Guarantee St 1 00 

Shaw, Robt. Deacon, 52 Jones 

Street 1 00 

Shaw, Virginia, Jones St. 1 00 
Scoggins, J. W. 25 

Shields, Otelia, Sheppard St. 1 00 
Shields, Emma, " " 25 
Simms, Nannie, 180 High St. 50 
Simms, D. 1 00 

Simms, Thornton, Rome St. 1 50 
Slaughter, Wm. C. New St. 50 
Slaughter, Faunie, Mercury St 1 10 
Smith, Ellen, 289 Carter St. 25 
Smith, Richard, Pegram St. 3 00 
Smith, Madeline C. Harrison 

Street 1 00 

Smith, Daisy 05 

Smith, C. V. 25 

Smith, Fannie . 50 

Smith, Mary, Clinton Street 25 
Smith, Indie, New York 5 00 

Smith, Caroline 10 

Smith, Mary P. 1 25 

Smith, Rosa 25 

Smith, Oscar, Harrison St. 05 
Smith, Amanda, Kenton St. 25 
Smith, Mary E. Harrison St. 1 00 
Smith, Eliza " " 1 00 

Smith, Peter T. Pegram St. 1 00 
Smith, Amanda, New St. 2 00 
Smithey, Maria, Guarantee St 1 00 
Smithey, Essie " " 10 

Snell, Maggie F. 1 00 

Spratley, W. M., Old St. 5 00 

Spratley, Mary 2 75 

Spratley. T. W. 25 

Starke, John 15 



Stevens, John A. C. New St. 

Stevens, Mattie " " 

Stewart, Wm. H. 

Steward, Lizzie, Blandford 

Steward, Julia, Wilcox St. 

Stith, Virginia, Farmer St. 

Stith, Virginia 

Stith, James, Farmer St. 

Stith, Emma J. 

Stith, James 

Stokes, Louisa, Byrne St. 

Stokes, Annie B. 

Swauu, Elizabeth, Rome St. 

Tabb, Emma 

Tabb, Lizzie B. Harrison St. 

Tabb, Anna B., St. Luke St. 

Tabb, Mary 

Tabb, Caledonia, Mercury St 

Tabb, Lucinda, Jones St. 

Tabb, Charles E. 

Tabb, Margaret 

Talliaferro, Minerva, Jones St 

Taylor, Martha 

Taylor, Georgia 

Taylor, Alfred, Pegram St. 

Taylor, Henrietta 

Taylor, Martha 

Taylor, Mary A. 

Taylor, Rebecca 

Taylor, Samuel N. Y. 

Taylor, Sandy N. Y. 

Taylor, John, Madison Street, 

Thomas, Edward, Gill Street, 

Thomas, Susan 

Thomas, Louisa B. 

Thomas, Jennie, Union St., 

Thomas, Virginia, Marshall 

Street, 
Thomas, John 
Thomas, Louise 
Thompson, Moses, Gill St., 
Thompson, Jacob 
Thrieft, Estelle 
Thornton, Willie F. 
Thweatt, Addie 
Thweatt, Rosa L. 
Thweatt, J. P. 
Thweatt, James 



5 00 

2 00 
25 

1 00 
50 

3 00 
25 
25 

1 00 
25 

1 00 
25 
25 

2 00 
2 25 

50 

10 

1 30 

1 00 

10 

25 

1 00 

1 00 

1 



00 

1 00 

25 

25 

10 

20 

50 

1 00 

50 

1 00 

60 

50 

1 00 

7 00 
50 
25 

2 00 
1 00 

15 
50 
1 00 
1 00 
25 
50 



8 4 



SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 



Thweatt, Adella, 142 Main St. 25 

Thweatt, Fannie 15 

Thweatt, Viola 05 

Townes, James 50 

Townes, Louisa, Second St. 1 00 

Turner, Matilda, Gill St. 1 00 

Turner, Elizabeth 10 

Turner, Turner 15 

Twyne, John, Cedar St. 2 00 

Twyne, Ella, " " 1 00 

Twyne, Jennie, Federal St. 25 

Twyne, Sadie " " 25 

Twyne, Anna 1 50 

Tyers, Carrie 25 

Tyler, Patsy 25 

Vadien, JMollie 30 

Vaiden, Isaac 05 

Valentine, Amanda 50 

Valentine, Victoria 10 

Valentine, James 1 00 

Valentine, Lucinda 1 00 

Venable, Howard, Jones St. 1 00 

Venable, Frank 45 

Venable, Margaret 05 

Venable, James H. 05 

Walton, Wyche, Sussex Co. 50 

Wallace, George, Jones St. 30 

Wallace, Indiana 1 00 

Wallace, Margaret 25 

Wallace, Edgar, Jones St. 1 00 

Wallace, Frances " " 1 30 

Wallace, R.H. Sycamore St. 100 

Walker, Alice, Guarantee St. 10 

Walker, Arthur, " " 25 

Walker, Gracie, " " 25 

Walker, Fannie 25 

Walker, Madeline 05 

Walker, John 1 00 

Walker, Thomas 05 

Walker, Maria L. Guarantee St 50 
Walker, Alice V., Baltimore, 

Md. 5 00 

Walker, Nellie, 12 Mars St. 1 00 

Walker, Esther, Liberty St. 25 

Walker, Alice 10 

Walker, Walker 15 

Walker, Simon, Sheppard St. 1 00 

Walker, Thos. E. " " 1 00 



Walker, Leroy 05 

Walker, Mary, Jones St. 05 

Walker, Martha 1 00 

Walker, Mary J. 2 00 

Walker, John 05 

Walker, Rebecca 1 00 

Warren, Anna 50 

Warren, Rosa 25 

Warden, Alice, Watson St. 1 00 

Washington, Lobeliah 05 

Washington, Eveleua 05 

Washington, M. 10 
Washington, Henry Blandford 50 
Washington, David, 238 Rock 

Street 3 00 
Washington, Luvinia, 238 

Rock Street 3 00 

Washington, Catharine 1 00 

Watkins, Edward, West St. 1 25 

Watkins, Catharine, " " 1 00 

Watts, Lula, 50 

Watts, Anna 60 

Weaver, Julia 25 

Weddell, Roxana 50 

Wells, Ella 2 00 

Wells, Fannie 1 00 

Wells, Ida 50 

Wells, Mitchell 10 

Wells, Teresa 10 

West, Mary 1 00 

West, Martha 55 

White, Elizabeth, Wilcox St. 1 00 

White, Nannie 25 

White, Jennie 25 

White, Pauline 10 

White, Marion 05 

White, Frances 1 00 

White, Rosa 25 

White, James H., Perry St. 50 

White, Johanna " " 50 

White, Louisa, Sycamore St. 25 

White, John, " " 05 

White, Rosetta 50 

White, Mary 25 

White, Fannie 25 

Whitehorn, Mrs., Wash. St. 1 00 
Williamson, Rachel, Harrison 

Street 1 35 



REV. HENRY WILLIAMS, D. D. 



85 



Williams, Richard, 313 N. C. 

Avenue 
Williams, Laura 
Williams, Mary 
Williams, Henry 
Williams, Annie G. 
Williams, Mary S. 
Williams, Rebecca 
Williams, Annie 
Williams, Rebecca 
Williams, Rebecca 
Williams, Alice, Federal St. 
Williams, Rebecca 
Williams, Maria 
Williams, Beth 
Williams, Clara 
Williams, Nannie 
Williams, Cordelia, Boston, 

Mass. 
Williams, A.E., St. Mark St 
Williams, John, " " 

Williams, George, 
Williams, Mary E. 316 West 

Street 
Williams, Roger, 316 West St. 
Williams, Henry Jr. 316 West 

Street 
Williams, Jos. Richmond 
Williams, Henry, Prince 

George County 
Willis, Elizabeth 
Willis, Teresa B. Pegram St. 
Williams, Richard, 316 West 

Street 
Willis, Lizzie 
Wilson, Ann E. 
Wilson, Martba P. Chester- 
field 
Wilson, Annie 
Wilson, Visie, Chesterfield 
Wilson, Emma J., New St. 
Wilson, Abram, Adams St. 
Wilson, Henrietta, " " 
Wilson, Luey P., 
Wilson, Edward, " " 
Wilson, Alexander 
Wilson, Claiborne 
Wilson, Elizabeth 



1 00 
50 
25 
25 
10 
50 
25 
25 
50 
25 
50 
25 
50 
10 
10 
10 

1 00 

1 00 

50 

1 00 

2 00 
30 

30 
25 

50 
20 
25 

30 
25 
50 

1 00 

1 00 

1 00 

1 00 

50 

1 00 

1 00 

1 00 

25 

50 

25 





25 




50 




25 




10 





00 


5 


00 


2 


00 



Wilkius, Virginia, Church St. 25 
Wilkins, Catharine 2 00 

Wilkerson, Jane 2 00 

Wilkerson, Douglas, Gill St. 3 25 
Wilkerson, Eleanor, " " 2 00 
Wilkerson, Douglas, Jr. Gill 

Street 
Wilkerson, Willie, Gill St. 
Wilkerson, Chas., " " 
Wilkerson, Florence " " 
Wilkerson, James M., 641 

Rome Street 
Wilkerson, FannieC.,Rome 

Street 
Wilkerson, Rose, 641 Rome 

Street 
Wilkerson, Samuel, 641 Rome 

Street 25 

Wilkerson, Frank, High Pearl 

Street 2 50 

Wilkerson, Ella, High Pearl 

Street 2 50 

Wilkerson, Fannie, High 

Pearl Street 25 

Wilkerson, Ella, High Pearl St 25 
Wilkerson, Frank Jr., High 

Pearl Street 
Winfield, Richard, 
WiDston, Elizabeth 
Wood, Alma, Grace Street 
Wood, Annie, " " 

Wood, Wm. " " 

Wood, Catharine 
Wood, Banks, Dinwiddie 
Wood, Catharine E. 
Wood, W. B. 



25 

1 00 

1 00 

05 

15 

05 

1 00 

1 00 

3 00 

50 



Wood, Edward, 606 West St. 2 00 



11 

u 



Wood, Mary C. 
Wood, Lottie, 
Wood, Herman, 
Wood, Lillian E., " 
Wood, Clarence, " 
Woodson, David Sr., 
Woodson, David, Jr., 
Woodson, Anna 
Woodson, Hattie 
Woodson, Eva 
Woodson, Montgomery 



75 
50 
20 

25 
25 

1 00 
25 

1 00 
25 
25 
25 



S6 



SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF 



Woodley, Catharine B., 246 

Federal Street 50 

Woodley, Carrie B. 50 

Word, W. S., Jones Street 1 00 

Word, Maurice, " " 25 

Word, Walter A. " " 50 

Word, Nazarene. " " 1 00 

Worrell, Josephine 25 

Worrell, Ruth, 20 

Worrell, John 05 

Worrell, Leon 05 

Worwhani, Mamie 10 

Worsham, Louis 10 



Wright, Rosetta, West St. 50 

Wright, J. T. 25 

Wright, Louise 2 00 
Wyatt, Mary L., Orion, Va. 1 00 

Wyatt, Charles C, " " 15 

Wyatt, Charlie 05 

Wyatt, Julia W. 05 

Wyatt, Ella B. 05 

Wyatt, Marion 05 
Younger, Anna E. SheppardSt 50 

Yonger, Walter, " " 10 

Younger, Lucy, " ''05 

Younger, Francella, " "05 



^ CONTENTS.^ 



ILLUSTRATIONS. 

Rev. Henry Williams, D. D. — Frontispiece. y 

Monument. 

Oilfield Baptist Church Edifice. 

J. A. C. Stevens, President Monument Committee. 

W. H. Johnson, Secretary Monument Committee. 

Henry Johnson, Treasurer Monument Committee. 

Alexander Forbes, Senior Deacon. 

Chapter I. page. 

Sketch of Rev. Williams' Life— Death and Funeral Services . . . 1-8 

Chapter II. 

Press Comments— Resolutions of Respect— Funeral Ceremonies — 

Memorial Exercises by the S. S 9-38 

Chapter III. 

Memorial Services by the Church 39-49 

Chapter IV. 

Memorial Exercises by the Va. B. S. Convention— Poem — Memor- 
ial Exercises by the B. B. Association 50-56 

Chapter V. 

Grandest Collection — Letter from Dr. Creditt — Testimonial from 

Dr. J. E. Jones 57-59 

Chapter VI. 

Unveiling of Monument— Secretary's Report— Letters Accompany- 
ing Donations — Reports of Recorders — Reports of Finance 
Committee — Clubs — Contributions 60-86 



Mil 22 *901 



